NORTH-West Euro MP Gary Titley is hotly tipped to take over as leader of the UK Labour group at Strasbourg after the shock departure of Dr Simon Murphy.

Radcliffe-based Mr Titley has put himself forward for the post, hoping to build on his current role as Labour's spokesman on the European Parliament's trade and industry committee.

Sources within the party believe he has been groomed to take over the top job and is likely to make the step up when elections are held next Wednesday. The result would be announced immediately.

Mr Titley is one of two candidates, the other being the current deputy leader, Linda McAvan, who represents Yorkshire.

Speaking from Brussels, Mr Titley said: "Europe will very much be on the agenda over the next few years and I believe I can take the Labour Party forward.

"I have been involved in European politics for 13 years and have a wealth of experience. The vacancy has arisen and I know I can do the job."

Dr Murphy quit his post blaming the "unbearable pressures" the job had placed on his home life as his reasons for stepping down. Mr Titley, one of 10 North-west MEPs representing Bolton, would slot into Dr Murphy's role with ease, according to his colleagues.

The 52-year-old is married to Spanish-born Charo, aged 48. They have two grown-up children: Adam, aged 22, and 19-year-old Samantha. Mr Titley is staunchly pro-euro, believing a referendum on the single currency should be held soon.

Prime Minister Tony Blair praised Dr Murphy yesterday for his "tireless" work as an MEP since 1994 and as Labour leader in Europe over the last two years.

He said in a statement: "Whilst I understand the reasons for his decision to stand down, I will not be alone in saying that his valuable contribution will be missed."

Dr Murphy's successor will be elected next Wednesday. He will stay on as an MEP until the next euro elections in 2004 .