Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has intensified his party's campaign efforts in a crucial Greater Manchester constituency, making his second visit to the area within just seven days as the by-election battle heats up.
Campaign Headquarters Officially Opened
Mr Farage personally opened Reform UK's campaign headquarters in Denton on Thursday, accompanied by the party's candidate Matt Goodwin and approximately one hundred enthusiastic supporters. The event marked a significant moment in the campaign, with Farage cutting the ribbon to officially launch the by-election headquarters.
The Reform UK leader expressed confidence in his party's progress, stating their campaign had got off to a "very, very good start" in their bid to challenge Labour's long-standing dominance in the constituency.
Scandal Allegations and Political Attacks
During his visit, Mr Farage launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's judgment regarding Lord Peter Mandelson's connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Farage described the situation as "the biggest scandal for 100 years" and suggested it could significantly impact the by-election outcome.
"What we don't yet know is, what will the impact of the Mandelson affair be," Farage told supporters. "I think where this potentially helps us is people say, 'Well, look, we want to get rid of Starmer, we've had enough, and this by-election could be the way to do it.'"
Response to Government Funding Announcement
Mr Farage also criticised the Prime Minister's announcement earlier on Thursday of £800 million in funding to address community decline, dismissing it as a politically motivated move timed to influence the by-election.
"This is classic, classic, what governments in trouble do," Farage remarked. "There's a by-election going on. And let's face it, Gorton and Denton is a very high-profile by-election. So you announce you're going to splurge, lots and lots of money, so people are going to say, 'OK, we forgive you for everything.'"
Historical Context and Electoral Challenge
The Gorton and Denton constituency represents a significant challenge for Reform UK, having been held by Labour since the end of the First World War. Farage acknowledged this historical context, noting it is "about the sixth safest Labour seat in all the country" but insisted a genuine contest is now underway.
"But there is now a real fight going on here," Farage declared. "I think we're off to a very, very good start."
By-Election Background and Candidates
The by-election was triggered when former Labour MP Andrew Gwynne stepped down citing health reasons. In the 2024 general election, Mr Gwynne secured the seat for Labour with 18,555 votes, representing more than half of the total cast.
Reform UK finished second in that contest with 5,142 votes, narrowly ahead of the Green Party who received 4,810 votes. This historical performance provides Reform UK with a foundation to build upon in the current campaign.
Labour has selected Angeliki Stogia, Manchester city councillor for Whalley Range, as their candidate after Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham was prevented from standing. Other candidates confirmed for the February 26 poll include:
- Hannah Spencer - Green Party (councillor and plumber)
- Charlotte Cadden - Conservative Party (retired police detective)
- Jackie Pearcey - Liberal Democrats (local campaigner)
The diverse field of candidates reflects the constituency's significance and the high stakes involved in this contest, which could signal shifting political allegiances in a traditionally Labour stronghold.
