The Green Party's candidate for next month's Makerfield by-election has withdrawn from the contest only hours after he was announced.

Chris Kennedy, a registered nurse and children's safeguarding specialist, has pulled out of the process due to "personal and family reasons", the party has confirmed.

"We wish Chris the best and understand that family has to come first," a Green Party spokesperson said.

It will be reopening candidate nominations later.

The BBC understands Kennedy wanted to focus on the caring responsibilities of his family, and it was a joint decision between him and the party for him to stand down.

The Greens intend to make a decision about a replacement candidate on Monday.

The by-election in the Greater Manchester constituency on 18 June was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons.

Simons said he was stepping down to allow Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham the opportunity to contest the seat and, if successful, make a return to Westminster as an MP.

Earlier, Green Party leader Zack Polanski said: "Chris will be a fantastic candidate and representative for Makerfield.

"This election is about who is making the case for lower bills, warmer and more affordable homes, and a greener and fairer economy."

Five other parties have so far announced their candidates:

• Andy Burnham, the Labour Party
• Alan "Howlin" Laud Hope, The Official Monster Raving Loony Party
• Robert Kenyon, Reform UK
• Rebecca Shepherd, Restore Britain
• Michael Winstanley, the Conservative Party

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