Local politicians and members of 'Rochdale Seven' react to Danczuk arrest in Spain

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Simon Danczuk in happier times with Councillor Ashley Dearnley

Local politicians and members of the Labour party expelled in 2009 for calling for an investigation into Simon Danczuk's behaviour have reacted to the latest scandal perpetrated by Rochdale's MP - his arrest in Spain - with dismay.

Mr Danczuk was arrested in Spain after a row with ex-wife Karen who was reportedly left "bloody and bruised". After a night in police cells, he was released without charge after she refused to press charges.

Rochdale Conservative leader, Councillor Ashley Dearnley said: "Sadly, this behavior reflects so badly on our town and can not continue.

"I hope that for the sake of every one Simon will realise that and then get help to deal with his personal problems."

Lib Dem leader Andy Kelly said: "It is time for Simon Danczuk to resign now. Just go and leave us Rochdalians to rebuild Rochdale. The damage is done.

"The reputation of the town is in tatters because of this man. He knows no shame. People in this constituency don’t want to be a laughing stock to the outside world, they want to get a good education for their kids, earn a good living and be proud of their town. Not constantly face lurching from one embarrassing saga to the next.

"In any other walk of life you would have been disciplined or cautioned by your employer by now. It’s been almost eight months since the Labour party suspended him and still they fail to act. If other politicians do not condemn his actions now then they are condoning what he is doing.

"Just go Simon."

Labour leader Richard Farnell did not respond to a request for comment.

Mick Coats, one of the Labour party members Danczuk got expelled in 2009 for asking for an investigation into his behaviour, said: "When will Rochdale be rid of 'our' MP who continues to bring the town down? It surely is time for the decent members of the Labour Party to demand that their leaders locally, regionally and nationally rid us of this unsuitable representative of the town.

"Seven members called for an investigation into this man years ago and were expelled for 'bringing the party into disrepute'.

"Time for an apology from the 'grandees' of the Labour Party? I think so!"

Mark Hollinrake, another of the Labour party members expelled in 2009, added: "What I find amusing is that he accused me and others of the Rochdale Seven at our expulsion show trial of being aggressive drunks in meetings - none of us were ever drunk in a meeting.

"What I find puzzling is that some in the local Labour Party still back him, they still find excuses for his behaviour.

"No surprise that Karen Danczuk has refused to press charges, as she is still reliant on his money and him employing her. 

"About time the case against the Rochdale Seven was re-opened, with this episode as well as other Danczuk misdemeanours being taken as new evidence. I don't think it will happen, as the case brought into question the uselessness of the Regional Labour Party."