Croydon South MP Richard Ottaway, has announced he is to stand down at the next general election.

The 67-year-old, who has represented Croydon South since 1992, revealed he will not be seeking re-election at a party meeting at Christ Church Purley, on Friday.

Mr Ottaway, whose parliamentary career in the House of Commons has spanned for more than a quarter of a century, said while it was "the right time to call it a day," he would be working "at full speed" until May 2015.

The former naval officer told Conservative Party members: "Serving the Croydon South constituency for more than two decades has been an immense privilege.

"I have been lucky to work alongside excellent colleagues and residents who care so deeply about this great neighbourhood.

"Whether helping individuals resolve issues on health, education or housing, or campaigning successfully for major projects including the Coulsdon Bypass, the modernisations of Purley Hospital and the Cane Hill redevelopment - I love every minute of my job.

"But I feel now is the right time to call it a day. I would like to spend time with my family and enjoy my hobbies while I still can."

Next month, Mr Ottaway's Private Member's Bill to regulate the scrap metal industry, will have its final debate in the House of Commons.

His work on the legislation has already earned him a nomination for the Grassroot Diplomat Award.

Mr Ottaway added: "Today is far from the end of the road for me, there is plenty of important work to be getting on with in Parliament and in my constituency."