A Conservative MP who was dismissed from the shadow cabinet for telling a racist joke will not face prosecution over her comments.

Cheshire Police have confirmed Ann Winterton will not be charged over the remark.

Mrs Winterton, 61, was sacked as Shadow Cabinet spokeswoman for rural affairs by Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith after her comments at a rugby club dinner earlier this month.

The incident was investigated by police after complaints Mrs Winterton, who is MP for Congleton, Cheshire, could be charged with inciting racial hatred.

A Cheshire Police spokeswoman said on Friday: "We have investigated the allegation and interviewed various people.

"No charges have been brought and no further action will follow."