MP who defeated Dennis Skinner in general election calls for statue to be erected in his honour

The 87-year-old Labour stalwart was dealt a devastating blow after 49 years at Westminster as his 5,288 majority was wiped out by the national Tory surge.

New Conservative MP Mark Fletcher who Beat the former MP known as the Beast of Bolsover paid tribute to him in his maiden House of Commons speech, who he called “a giant of British politics”.

He urged the Government and Opposition to join his campaign for a statue of the veteran.

Mr Fletcher said: "He fought tirelessly for his constituents locally and it was incredibly heartening to hear on street after street and doorstep after doorstep in the campaign of the work that he had done to help people.

"Dennis also became known nationally for his uncompromising contributions in this chamber and his heckling in the Queen's Speech.

"Feared, admired and respected, Dennis Skinner is synonymous both with this House and with the constituency I now represent.

"And I think it would only be fair and a great tribute if we can arrange for a statue of Dennis to be built in the constituency to honour his service and to inspire the next generation in Bolsover that they too can help shape the world.

"I would very much welcome the support of the Opposition front bench on this proposal as well the Government."