Croydon Central MP Andrew Pelling is undergoing treatment for clinical depression and taking a leave of absence from his constituency duties.

A statement issued earlier today, which was confirmed by his constituency office, said Mr Pelling had been advised by doctors to take time off work and seek help for his condition.

The stament said: "My doctors have advised me to undergo treatment for clinical depression and to take a short leave of absence from my responsibilities. I intend to make a full and early recovery and to return invigorated to serve the interests of my constituents in Croydon and Sutton."

Mr Pelling, who is also a GLA member for Croydon and Sutton, announced his intention to stand down as an MP months after being arrested on suspicion of assaulting his pregnant second-wife Lucy.

He was suspended from the party whip by the Conservatives shortly after his arrest and although the charges were dropped a month later, Mr Pelling announced in December that he would not be standing again at the next general election.

Constituency officer for Croydon Central Councillor Richard Chatterjee confirmed the statement was genuine and wished Mr Pelling a speedy recovery.

He said: "We wish Andrew well and a full and speedy recovery. In the short-term while he is off we will act just like we would usually do when he is away from the office for any period of time, with his parliamentary office and GLA office continuing to do their work by re-directing a lot of his mail to the appropriate people. The stuff that involves personal signatures I am not too sure and will have to find a bit more about."