MP Sharon Hodgson's office hit by fire and vandalism in night attack

Labour MP Sharon Hodgson's office has been hit in a shocking late night act of vandalism that saw the building set alight.

Flames could be seen leaping from Vermont House in Concord, Washington, the Sunderland offices of the MP for Washington and Gateshead South, overnight, leaving the structure a smouldering wreck. Emergency services called to the scene following the incident remain at the scene, with images showing crude graffiti scrawled on the outside.

The words "328 days - blood on your hands" were spray painted on the building's walls in what locals believe is a reference to an ongoing global conflict.

READ MORE: Keir Starmer condemns strike on Qatar as 'flagrant violation' in meeting with Israel's President

READ MORE: Keir Starmer drops vaccine bombshell and attacks 'dangerous' Reform claims

A significant police and Fire Brigade presence remains at the site, with investigations ongoing this morning, according to local outlet the Sunderland Echo. Local residents speaking to the publication have claimed other businesses in the town also appear to have been impacted by the incident, and called for protesters to switch up their methods.

One said: “There are surely more democratic ways to protest about things. Other businesses look like they have also been affected. It’s difficult enough for local businesses at the moment without this."

John Foster, a member of Eagle Archery, a club that uses one of the buildings adjoining the MP's office, said he arrived this morning to find the site "blocked off by police cars and tape". He said: “I arrived this morning to attend a practice session to find the entrance blocked off by police cars and tape. The building looks a bit of a mess."

"If this has been done deliberately then it’s shocking behaviour but people think they can get away with it." Representatives for Ms Hodgson said in their own statement that, while they would not comment on the incident, the MP would "not be deterred" and continue to support her constituents.

A spokesperson said: "An incident occurred overnight at Sharon’s office. We will not be commenting or speculating while there is an ongoing police investigation, what we are clear on is there is no place for this kind of violence in our society.

"Sharon will not be deterred and will continue to support her constituents in Washington and Gateshead South as she does day in, day out. Constituents should get in touch with their issues by emailing in the usual way." Ms Hodgson has represented her constituency for the last two years, having been elected as the area's Labour MP in 2005.

The Daily Mirror has contacted Northumbria Police for additional information.