It is understood that the Greater Manchester mayor was the only person considered for selection by Labour's ruling National Executive Committee, which bypassed the local party this morning.

Local pipesman Robert Kenyon is among the leading contenders to take on Andy Burnham in a by-election expected next month.

Party confirms that no other candidates have been shortlisted for election expected to take place on 18 June

It is understood that the Greater Manchester mayor was the only person considered for selection by Labour's ruling National Executive Committee, which bypassed the local party…

The Labour Party has selected Andy Burnham as its candidate for the Makerfield by-election while Reform has picked a plumber to stand again.

Reform UK has framed the contest between Robert Kenyon and Andy Burnham as 'a David versus Goliath battle'

There has never been a by-election like the one looming in Makerfield. Andy Burnham may have been prevented by Labour's ruling body from standing in a by-election back in…

Contest could give Andy Burnham — who has eyes on the Labour leadership — a route back into parliament to challenge Keir Starmer.

The Mayor of Greater Manchester would need to win the seat near before launching any formal leadership challenge

Sir Keir Starmer confirmed that he would campaign alongside Andy Burnham in the crucial by-election