Jeff Ennis, the Barnsley East and Mexborough MP, has announced he will not seek re-election due to "personal reasons".

Mr Ennis, 57, has held his seat in the constituency, which also includes parts of the Bentley and Sprotbrough wards, since it was formed before the 1997 general election.

He said the decision had been "very difficult" but believed now was the right time to stand down.

He added: "This year marks my 30th year as an elected Labour representative at both local and national level - it's time to step aside and give someone else a chance.

"The thing that shall I miss most is taking up issues in Parliament for my local constituents.

"I'm very lucky to have represented some of the most genuine and sincere people in the country.

"It has been a real pleasure and a privilege to serve them."

Mr Ennis, who was born in Grimethorpe, was first elected to Barnsley East in 1996 before being voted to take over the newly formed constituency.