ACTOR and producer Steve Coogan- whose work includes TV comedy character Alan Partridge and the film Philomena- has cancelled his Bishop Auckland visit in support of election candidate, Helen Goodman.

Coogan, star of Stan and Ollie, was set to help Ms Goodman officially launch her campaign as the Labour candidate for the Bishop Auckland constituency in next month's general election.

In a post on Facebook, Ms Goodman said: "I am very, very sorry to tell you that Steve Coogan's film production company has decided that he must work on Friday for his new project, so he is unable to come to meet us. He sends his sincere apologies. We are looking for another date for his visit.

"I know how disappointing this will be for you, because I'm disappointed too. The screening will go ahead as planned, from 4pm on Friday in line with your ticket information.

"If you have booked tickets and now do not want to come, you are able to request a refund via Eventbrite. Go to tickets in your Eventbrite account, find the order and click request refund."