A Barking and Dagenham councillor has been chosen as Labour's candidate for the Dagenham and Rainham constituency at the next election.

Margaret Mullane will contest the seat in a bid to replace Jon Cruddas, who announced earlier this year he would be stepping down.

In a social media video announcing her campaign to be Labour's candidate, Cllr Mullane said her family was raised in council houses in Baddow Close and Groveway in Dagenham.

READ MORE: 'An incredible privilege’: Dagenham and Rainham MP Jon Cruddas on 21 years of service

She went to St Peter's School in Dagenham and the trade union member explained that "working-class values are in my blood".

Reacting to her candidacy, she posted on Twitter on November 12: "Wow what a day... To all who voted for me thank you."

Cllr Mullane, who represents Village ward, manages Mr Cruddas's office and was endorsed by the MP in September.

Mr Cruddas said then: "She knows the struggles local people face and is the only person I have faith in to win the next election.

"Margaret will be an exceptional MP."

The next general election must be held no later than January 2025.