WINDOWS of a North-East MP’s constituency office have been smashed in an apparent attempt to intimidate her regarding her stance over Brexit.

The damage at the office of Bishop Auckland MP Helen Goodman was caused on Saturday night, amid heightened concerns for the safety of politicians during negotiations over leaving the European Union.

Glass in a window and the front door of the office on Cockton Hill Road in the town centre are now boarded up.

Ms Goodman, 61, said: “I do not know who did this, but this sort of yobbish behaviour is totally unjustified and does not help us to find a way forward for the country.”

Ms Goodman campaigned to remain in the European Union, but voted to trigger Article 50 in respect of the result of the referendum to leave in June 2016.

She has recently said she would vote in favour of a second People’s Vote on the issue, which should include a sensible ‘Leave’ option that would not damage manufacturing heartlands.

The damage comes during a time of increased tension across the country with some MPs reporting they have received death threats.

Ms Goodman said: “I've had a lot of unpleasant social media posts. It is Brexit-related but that is no justification.

“We live in a free country and attempts to intimidate through violence are wrong.

“It's so unfair on my staff. They are entitled to work free from fear, and also it's bad for constituents who need urgent help. We'll have to review our security at the office.”

Pictures of the damage were sent to the MP on Twitter and generated several comments on the social media site.

Jack Cullen, who shared a photograph, said: “I hope it's just an accident but the level of hatred in politics is rising to an unsafe and violent level.”

Dave Reynolds said: “Having a difference of opinion is one thing, but someone should be hanging their head in shame for this.

“They probably feel clever right now but I hope the law of the land cuts short their childish feelings of whatever it is drives anyone to do this.”

Stevie Spencer said: “Awful but there is understandable anger when MPs delete democracy to thwart Brexit.”

Ms Goodman, who has been the area’s Labour MP since 2005, said the building was empty when the damage was caused.

She tweeted: “Feelings may be running high but violence like this is quite unjustified.

“Fortunately, because it was Saturday night, no-one was in the office or hurt.”

Durham Constabulary was called shortly before 10.30pm.

A force spokesman said: "Two windows at the office on Cockton Hill Road, Bishop Auckland were smashed after being hit by an unknown object.

“Officers will be back at the premises today as part of ongoing investigation, including studying CCTV from the area and carrying out house-to-house enquiries. At this time we are keeping an open mind as to the motive.

“We would appeal for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area between 5pm and 10.30pm on Saturday to contact Durham Constabulary on 101.”