FORMER Hampshire MP Sir David Mitchell has died at his home in Odiham following a long illness, his family has announced.

Sir David, was an MP from 1964 to 1997, representing Hampshire North West, and also served under Margaret Thatcher in various departments including industry, transport and Northern Ireland.

He was the father of former Cabinet and current Tory MP Andrew Mitchell.

A family spokesman said: “Sir David Mitchell, the former member of Parliament for Hampshire North West and minister in the Thatcher governments has died today aged 86.

“The family has expressed its gratitude to the health professionals and carers who enabled him to die peacefully in his own home.”