A man who sent an obscene email to Angela Rayner MP which referred to her as an 'ugly menopausal pig' among other offensive words has pleaded guilty in court.

David Perry of Eyston Drive, Weybridge, Surrey, pleaded guilty at Westminster Magistrate's Court today (Friday, October 20) for sending malicious communications to the Ashton-under-Lyne and Failsworth MP, Angela Rayner.

In May this year, the Shadow Deputy Prime Minister received an email that read: "Do you really think anybody would be interested in an ugly menopausal pig like you?

"With your sad old m***e, which you could throw a kipper up, typical career politician, useless, no experience, no qualification."

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The 66-year-old was discovered to be behind the offensive email when Greater Manchester Police carried out an investigation as part of Operation Octant in connection with malicious communications sent to the MP.

Perry is now set to be sentenced at Staines Magistrates on Thursday, November 16, after pleading guilty to sending a grossly offensive/indecent/obscene/menacing message.

Detective Inspector Christopher Dean of GMP's Tameside CID said: "Abusive and threatening communication, towards anyone, is unacceptable and not only impacts the life of those they are directed at but also those close to them.

"The abusive correspondence sent to this woman left her understandably distressed.

"We launched a full investigation to identify those responsible and I hope today's guilty plea and the subsequent date for sentencing clearly demonstrates that these actions have consequences.

"What you think may be a quick and harmless email can result in a criminal conviction and we will always do what we can to take robust action against you."

Anyone who has been a victim or witnessed a hate crime is asked to report it at the earliest opportunity online or by using GMP's live chat service at www.gmp.police.uk.

For victim support and information, visit gmvictims.org.uk. 

To find out more information and advice about hate crime, visit www.letsendhatecrime.com.

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