Mike Amesbury statement in full after MP filmed in 'row outside taxi rank' and police probe assault

A Manchester-born Labour MP has issued a statement after being caught up in an altercation in his constituency.

Mike Amesbury, who represents Runcorn and Helsby in Cheshire, was filmed following an incident on Main Street, in Frodsham, in the early hours of Saturday morning (October 26).

In the clip, which is circulating on social media, Mr Amesbury can be seen pointing at a man who is lying on the ground. He can then be heard saying: "You won't ever threaten your MP ever again, will you?"

Cheshire Police confirmed it was looking into the matter. In a statement, Mr Amesbury claimed to have felt threatened prior to the moments seen in the video clip, and that he reported the incident to police this morning.

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He said: “Last night, I was involved in an incident that took place after I felt threatened on the street following an evening out with friends. This morning, I contacted Cheshire Police myself to report what happened during this incident.

“I will not be making further public comment but will, of course, cooperate with any inquiries if required by Cheshire Police. I remain fully committed to working hard for the people of Runcorn and Helsby, and am determined to remain an open and accessible MP for our community.”

A Labour Party spokesperson added: “We are aware of an incident that took place last night involving Mike Amesbury MP. We understand that Mr Amesbury approached Cheshire Police to report what happened this morning himself, and that he will cooperate with any inquiries they have.”

The altercation is understood to have taken place hours after a community safety meeting with police. John Roberts, owner of a taxi company in Main Street, Frodsham, said footage he had seen showed a punch being thrown and a man then lying on the ground.

Cheshire Police confirmed it was received a report of an assault on Main Street, Frodsham, at 2.48am today. A spokesperson added: "A caller reported he had been assaulted by a man in Main Street. Enquiries are ongoing."