Hexham's MP Guy Opperman has praised Theresa May for her time as Prime Minister.

Mr Opperman reacted to Friday morning's announcement from Mrs May that she will resign as leader of the Conservatives party on June 7.

He said: "Theresa May has utter commitment to public service, fortitude under pressure, and a selfless nature.

"When I welcomed the Prime Minister to Heddon school last year, her interest, warmth and empathy towards the teachers, pupils and families was clear.

"Over the past three years she has worked tirelessly to deliver on the result of the EU Referendum.

"However - as the Prime Minister said in her speech - it is right that a new leader now works to secure the backing of a majority of MPs for a deal in Parliament.

"It has been an honour to serve her as a PPS in the Home Office, and as a junior government minister."