Rochdale by-election: Man held over Simon Danczuk death threats

A man has been arrested following reports of a candidate in the Rochdale by-election receiving death threats.

The threats were made to Simon Danczuk in writing and in a video posted to his campaign page, his party Reform UK said.

Mr Danczuk is one of 11 candidates standing in the by-election on Thursday.

The 23-year-old suspect was held on suspicion of malicious communication on Monday evening.

He remained in custody for questioning while inquiries continue, police said.

Supt Lucy Smallwood, from Greater Manchester Police, said: "We understand incidents like this can be concerning but the victim and the public should be reassured that we've made an arrest.

"In anticipation of the by-election, we had already put increased patrols in place."

The by-election was prompted by the death of Sir Tony Lloyd in January.

All 11 candidates have provided the BBC with minute manifestos ahead of the vote.

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