DROITWICH’S MP Peter Luff, who is to step down at the next general election, has been praised for his loyal service by Prime Minister David Cameron.

Mr Cameron paid tribute to Mr Luff in a personal letter after the Mid-Worcestershire MP announced his decision to leave his position in 2015.

He said: “You have been such a loyal, dedicated and committed colleague over the past two and a half years in Government and it has been a joy to work with you. You have brought so much to our team, so I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for the service you have given in Government, and moreover, your long-standing contribution to the Conservative Party since you were first elected in 1992.

“As the representative for Worcester, and since 1997 Mid-Worcestershire, you have always put your constituents first, standing up for their interests in Parliament and fighting for the causes you are most passionate about. It is a reflection of your dedication to your constituency, and to public service more widely, that you have increased your majority in Mid-Worcestershire at every general election, and left a legacy you can be justifiably proud of.

“Finally, I would like to thank you for the loyalty and support you have always given me personally. You were one of my very early supporters when I stood for the party leadership in 2005, and that is something I will not forget. I hope that I can continue to count on your support from the backbenches and that you will always feel able to raise any issue with me at any time.”