RUNCORN'S Labour MP has been promoted to the front bench, just one year after being elected.

Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury has been appointed as Shadow Employment Minister.

The 47-year-old was elected in June 2017.

It's his second promotion in less than a year after previously being named a Parliamentary Private Secretary in Labour's Shadow Department for Works and Pensions team.

In his inaugural year Mr Amesbury he has made many visits to employers, businesses and colleges in his constituency and is a former careers advisor and Connexions manager by trade.

Mr Amesbury said: "This is a huge and exciting challenge where I'll get the chance to press the government on its employment record and policies.

" I'll campaign for high quality jobs where people are paid a good wage and have genuine employment rights."

He is one of four Labour MPs selected to fill vacancies or provide maternity cover.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: “I am delighted to welcome new colleagues to Labour’s frontbench to strengthen our team as we continue to expose the Tories’ failings and prepare to form a government that works for the many, not the few.”