Live updates from the Makerfield by-election count, where the outcome could determine the next prime minister. Voting concluded on Thursday in what is being described as the most significant by-election in a generation.
Background of the By-Election
The election was triggered after Labour MP Josh Simons announced his resignation last month. This opened the door for Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, to seek Labour's candidacy. Burnham has hinted that a win would prompt him to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership.
Key Candidates
- Andy Burnham (Labour): A Merseyside-born politician with leadership ambitions.
- Robert Kenyon (Reform UK): A local plumber, despite controversial past social media posts.
The race is tight, especially after Reform UK's strong performance in recent Wigan Council elections, which overlap with the constituency.
Live Coverage
Political editor Liam Thorp is reporting from the count in Wigan, with the team providing minute-by-minute updates.
