Hartlepool United have urged their supporters to "think carefully" about voting for Labour in tomorrow's general election.

The League Two club posted a statement on their club website where they took a thinly-veiled dig at local MP Iain Wright.

Wright hit out at Hartlepool in December when news emerged that Pools were reportedly planning on signing convicted rapist Ched Evans.

"To-date we have had a Conservative candidate (Richard Royal) and UKIP (Phillip Brighton) attending games and showing current and future interest in the club and potential support from a political point of view," the statement read.

"The Green candidate (Michael Holt) and of course Labour's Iain Wright are also standing for election in Hartlepool. The choice is yours but please do turn up to vote. This club supports any candidate who supports the club and the Football League.

"The current Hartlepool Labour MP has failed to support the club on many occasions (as has the Labour Council). The MP failed to recognise that his immediate comments on certain issues regarding player transfers did not benefit this club but, in the club's opinion, were made for political gain.

"In addition, his failure to assist in negotiations with the Council on the land purchase issue since his election has been disappointing. The club expects more from a local MP. However, it's up to you the people of Hartlepool but the club urges you to think carefully about voting for any councillor or MP who does not recognise the importance of this Football Club to its loyal supporters, the income it brings into the town and the future of the club."

Hartlepool narrowly avoided relegation from the Football League this season, finishing in 22nd place in the League Two table.