BASINGSTOKE’S Labour prospective parliamentary candidate has announced his resignation following an “extremely difficult time”.

Posting the news on social media, David Lawrence said he had made the decision to step down “with a heavy heart” and “for personal reasons”.

READ MORE: Care home residents were caused 'physical harm' by manager's conduct, panel finds

The 29-year-old added: “As some of those close to me will know, this has been an extremely difficult time, and I am not able to give 100 per cent to my candidacy as the people of Basingstoke deserve. I am very grateful for the ongoing support from family and friends.”

Mr Lawrence, who became a dad on November 7 with the arrival of his son Ronan Isaiah Lawrence at Basingstoke hospital, said he was “incredibly proud” of the campaign he has run in Basingstoke over the past year, which included knocking on the doors of 10,000 residents and speaking to thousands of people.

Basingstoke Gazette: David Lawrence became a father on November 7He added: “We have organised listening events and surgeries across the town, led campaigns on issues that matter to local residents, and offered a tangible alternative to the last 13 years of Conservative failure.

“The response we have had has been phenomenal: there is clear appetite for change in Basingstoke, and it is up to Labour to provide that hope.”

SEE ALSO: Basingstoke art teacher heading to Italy to compete in ice hockey world masters

Mr Lawrence thanked volunteers and supporters for giving their “time and energy” to the campaign in Basingstoke and apologised to residents “who were ready to put their trust in me”, saying he is “sorry to let them down”.

He added: “Basingstoke remains the first place I called home, and will always hold a special place in my heart. I still sincerely believe that, after decades of being taken for granted by the Conservatives, our town deserves a fresh start.

“I wish the very best to my successor, and I hope that my efforts have not been in vain. In the meantime, I look forward to some quality time with my wife and our newborn son, Ronan.”