MP Paul Goggins 'seriously ill' after running collapse

A statement on behalf of the family said he was "receiving the best care"

A Greater Manchester MP is "seriously ill" in hospital after collapsing while out running.

Paul Goggins, Labour MP for Wythenshawe and Sale East, was out with his son near his home when he was taken ill.

The 60-year-old was taken by ambulance to Salford Royal Hospital, where he is currently being treated.

A statement on behalf of his family said Mr Goggins was "receiving the best care" and asked for prayers and privacy.

His wife, Wyn, and their three grown-up children are said to be at his bedside at Salford Royal.

'Fit and a fighter'

Labour leader Ed Miliband called the MP "one of the most decent, kind and assiduous Members of Parliament".

He said: "The news he is seriously ill is a huge shock for people across the Labour Party and for his friends throughout Parliament.

"All of my good wishes and the thoughts of our whole party are with him and his family."

Shadow health secretary Andy Burnham MP tweeted: "Thoughts & prayers with my good friend Paul Goggins & his family. A man of total decency, universally loved & respected. Get well soon."

Graham Stringer, Labour MP for Blackley and Broughton, described Mr Goggins as "strong, fit and a fighter".

He said: "I hope with the skill of the surgeons at [Salford Royal], which is one of the best hospitals in the country, and his own fighting spirit he will pull through."

Mr Goggins, who was first elected MP for Wythenshawe and Sale East in 1997, served as Minister for Prisons and Probation for two years.

He was also Northern Ireland Office Minister from 2007 to 2010.