Andy Burnham may have a route back to Westminster and a path to the Labour leadership, but first the Greater Manchester mayor must win the byelection in Makerfield after Josh Simons agreed to step down as the constituency’s MP. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage has vowed Reform UK will 'throw absolutely everything' at the contest in an attempt to derail the ambitions of one of Labour’s most high-profile figures.
Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian’s north of England correspondent Hannah al-Othman, who has been talking to voters in the constituency about the issues that matter to them. The byelection, triggered by Simons’ resignation, is seen as a critical test for Burnham, who is widely considered a potential future leader of the Labour Party. However, Reform UK’s aggressive campaign strategy poses a significant threat, with Farage personally committing resources to the race.
Voters in Makerfield, a small town in Greater Manchester, express mixed feelings. Some support Burnham’s record as mayor, while others are skeptical of national politics. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for the next general election and the leadership of both major parties.
