A Kent MP has taken the decision to stand down from government in order to spend time with her family after some "very sad news".

Kelly Tolhurst will continue to serve her Rochester and Strood constituency where she was first elected in 2015.

In a message to followers on Twitter she said: "With great sadness I’ve decided to stand down from Government following some very sad news to care for & spend time with my family. Its been a huge honour to serve our country. I’m proud to support our PM & Gov as we deliver for the British people & recover from Covid. Thank you"

She included her letter of resignation in which she outlined the achievements she was most proud of while serving as minister for aviation and maritime, small businesses and most recently rough sleeping.

She said she was confident the current government would achieve its manifesto pledge of ending rough sleeping by the end of its term.

She added: "Upon returning to life as a backbencher, I will look forward to continuing to speak up for my constituents of Rochester & Strood and highlight the pride that I feel every day to represent the people and place that I have lived all my life.

"In the fullness of time, I do hope that I may have the opportunity to serve in your government once again."

She did not go into any more detail about the news other than to describe it as "devastating".

The 42-year-old attended Chapter High School, now Strood Academy, and succeeded Mark Reckless after he defected to Ukip.

The Prime Minister replied to Miss Tolhurst's tweet saying he was very sad that she was standing down from government.

He added: "You’ve been a brilliant minister at three departments but family must come first. My thoughts are with you and your loved ones at this difficult time."

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