Sacked Cabinet minister Lucy Powell has raced ahead in the Labour deputy leadership contest, according to a poll.
A survey of members found Ms Powell enjoys a huge advantage over her rival Bridget Phillipson - Downing Street's de facto candidate.
Once 'don't knows' were excluded, the former Commons leader was supported by 61 per cent of activists in the research by Survation and grassroots site LabourList.
In contrast Education Secretary Ms Phillipson was backed by just 39 per cent.
Such a result would pose another headache for Keir Starmer, as he faces growing anger in the Labour ranks about his performance.
