A community magazine in the North West is championing a local campaign to oust a disgraced MP.

The Salford Star says it’s the first local organisation to back the Hazel Must Go! campaign which hopes to drum up support against the former communities secretary Hazel Blears.

Ms Blears was forced to pay £13,000 in previously unpaid capital gains tax on the sale of a second home after her expense claims were revealed in a national newspaper.

An open letter from campaigners is being sent out across Salford which is also available on SalfordStar.com.

In a spiky online editorial, the Star writes: “The campaign is not aligned to any political party and has been born from the anger and frustration many of Hazel Blears’ constituents are feeling in the light of the scandals that have surrounded our representative over the last few weeks.

“On 12 June Hazel apologised for her actions which she herself has deemed to be ‘stupid’ – but then reiterated that she intends to stand at next year’s general election.

“Over the coming weeks, residents’ associations, trade unions, community organisations, workers and residents will be asked to back the campaign.

“The Salford Star, the city’s community magazine – which has been waiting over six months for ‘our MP’ to reply to a letter regarding ’empowerment funding’ – has agreed to be the first organisation to back the campaign.

“Over the coming weeks we’re hoping that many more will follow.”