Polls close in Makerfield byelection that could see Andy Burnham elected and pave way for end of Starmer – UK politics live

Polls have closed in the Makerfield byelection, a contest that could propel Labour's Andy Burnham towards a potential leadership bid and reshape the party's direction.

Both major candidates expressed optimism as voting concluded. Reform UK's Robert Kenyon stated his confidence in achieving a "big vote," thanking supporters for their faith. "From changing boilers to changing politics, this is something I will never forget!" he posted on social media.

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A huge thanks to the people of the Makerfield constituency for your patience and good humour over the last five weeks. My thanks too to the many volunteers who came up to support my campaign. We ran a very positive one and can be proud of it!

Labour's Deputy Leader Lucy Powell described the campaign as "positive" and focused on residents, despite acknowledging the challenge posed by Reform UK's previous performance in the constituency. "We knew this would be a tough fight, given Reform did so well here just a few weeks ago, but the Labour movement came together to show we are well up for that fight," Powell said.

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This photo was taken on the day I decided to stand in Makerfield. I am confident of a big vote for Reform tonight. Thank you to everyone who placed their faith in me. From changing boilers to changing politics, this is something I will never forget!

Andy Burnham himself thanked the people of Makerfield for their "patience and good humour" during the five-week campaign, also extending gratitude to volunteers. His message, posted on social media, was interpreted by some as a sign of confidence in a positive outcome.

The results of the Makerfield byelection, alongside those in Aberdeen South and Arbroath and Broughty Ferry, are anticipated after a substantial voting period. The article also provides historical voting data for these constituencies from the 2024 general election.

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Our great candidate, Andy Burnham, and our fantastic Labour team have run a positive campaign focused on the people of the Makerfield constituency. We knew this would be a tough fight, given Reform did so well here just a few weeks ago, but the Labour movement came together to show we are well up for that fight. While it will be some hours before we know the result, I want to say a huge thank you to the hundreds and hundreds of activists and volunteers who have helped with this campaign. Together, we’ve spoken to a record number of residents and shared our Labour mes