THE Labour Party says it is taking very seriously an allegation that former council leader Marie Rimmer assaulted a woman while campaigning in Scotland.

The 67-year-old councillor for West Park was charged following an incident at a Glasgow polling station.

Rimmer, who will stand as the Labour candidate for St Helens South and Whiston at the next general election, is due to return to Scotland next month to appear at Glasgow Sherriff’s office.

Following her arrest a police statement read: “Police Scotland can confirm that a 67-year-old woman has been arrested and charged in connection with an alleged assault on a female following an incident at Shettleston Community Centre in Amulree Street, Glasgow around 13.00 hours.

“A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”

A spokesperson for Labour North West said: "We’re looking at this closely and take it very seriously, but whilst there are ongoing legal proceedings we can't comment any further."

Rimmer was with council leader Barrie Grunewald and a group of Labour councillors from St Helens who travelled over the border to help the No vote campaign.

She was unavailable for comment.