Labour MP's wife sent dead bird in the post

A Labour MP's wife has spoken of her shock after being sent a dead bird in the post.

Newly-elected councillor Jo White, wife of Nottinghamshire MP John Mann, discovered the decomposing bird at their home earlier this week.

In a statement, Ms White said she was left shaken and frightened after finding the package when she returned home from her first official meeting at Bassetlaw District Council.

“I came home after the council's AGM and found a pile of post waiting for me,” she said.

“Whilst there was an unpleasant smell I thought nothing of it until I began opening the last package when the smell became so overwhelming I retched and felt really sick.”

Ms White, who was elected to the Worksop East ward at this month's local elections, added: “I put the package outside and called the police, who have been absolutely brilliant.

“They took away the bird along with the package for DNA investigation - I really hope they find whoever did this.”

John Mann, who has represented the Bassetlaw constituency since 2001, said: “It's appalling that a new councillor should have to deal with this in their first week and I hope that the perpetrator is quickly found and given the maximum punishment possible.

“Whilst we could take the quiet route and not say anything I want to make it absolutely clear that such behaviour is intolerable and we will not be intimidated by anyone.”

The couple, who live in the Retford area, alerted police following the discovery on Wednesday evening.

A Nottinghamshire Police spokesman said: “We can confirm we are investigating this incident and our inquiries are on-going.”

Anyone who can assist the inquiry should telephone Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or the Crimestoppers service on 0800 555 111.

PA