"Politics is brutal."

That was part of a leaving message by Great Yarmouth's MP, Sir Brandon Lewis.

Reacting to the prime minister's Wednesday announcement of a general election on July 4 Sir Brandon posted a social media message reflecting on his time as borough MP.

Sir Brandon had announced in March his decision to not stand again in the coastal constituency.

Reflecting on his 14 years in parliament, which has seen Sir Brandon take up several government positions including minister for Northern Ireland and lord chancellor, he said being the MP for Great Yarmouth has been the honour of his life.

He also said politics was a "brutal life" and coming home to a loving family made it "more palatable".

Great Yarmouth Mercury: FLASHBACK: Sir Brandon Lewis at the Royal Courts of Justice, in central London, ahead of his swearing in ceremony as Lord Chancellor.FLASHBACK: Sir Brandon Lewis at the Royal Courts of Justice, in central London, ahead of his swearing in ceremony as Lord Chancellor. (Image: PA)In his social media post, Sir Brandon said: "I reflect on those wonderful people who have helped me so much during my time as an MP.

"My constituency office team, special advisers, civil servants, local Conservative association and the hundreds of party activists who have helped deliver leaflets and knock on doors are the reason I’ve been able to achieve what I have.

"And to the people of Great Yarmouth - I’ve never forgotten that you put your faith in me to deliver for you. 

"We’ve made some great progress over the years, and I very much hope you feel able to support my successor in continuing that record of delivery."

READ MORE: Left in the lurch: Coastal Tory candidate could be named in 10 days

Sir Brandon also thanked his wife and family for their support over the years, saying: "Politics is a brutal game - and being able to go home and close the door to a loving family makes it all the more palatable.

"I look forward to supporting my colleagues across the country to secure a Conservative government on July 4."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Sir Brandon Lewis outside a polling station.Sir Brandon Lewis outside a polling station. (Image: Brandon Lewis/Instagram)With the date for the next general election now set in stone, the Great Yarmouth Conservative Association is still yet to secure its candidate for the constituency.

Reacting to Rishi Sunak's announcement, Labour candidate Keir Cozens has issued a rallying cry, saying the party "will be fighting hard for every vote".

Rupert Lowe announced his hopes to become Great Yarmouth's next MP standing as a candidate for Reform.

It has also been announced Trevor Rawson will be standing for the Green Party on July 4.