Labour MP Luke Pollard is receiving treatment for skin cancer but said that he hoped to be back at work “shortly”.

The shadow armed forces minister, who represents the Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport constituency, described the diagnosis as a “bit of a shock” but said he was being “well looked after” by the NHS.

Mr Pollard, 42, who was elected in 2017, released a statement on Thursday to announce that he would be taking a few weeks away from frontline politics to recover.

“The cancer diagnosis was a bit of a shock but thanks to our brilliant NHS I am being well looked after.

“I will be taking a few weeks to recover but hope to be back at work shortly.

“Skin cancer cases are on the rise in the UK and so if you find a bump or lump, please go and get it checked out.

“I went to get a bump checked which was OK but while I was at my GP they found one of concern that turned out to be cancer.

“The earlier the diagnosis, the more effective the treatment.”

Mr Pollard said that due to Easter recess in Parliament, his attendance in Westminster was not likely to be affected.

But he said he was “gutted” he would not be able to see local team Plymouth Argyle play in Wembley this weekend.

“My brilliant team will continue to help people while I am taking a step back for a short while and so if you live in Plymouth Sutton and Devonport please do continue to contact my office if you need help or support,” he said.