Everyone here knows this is a sliding doors moment. A win could be a new beginning for the party, a loss an unimaginable calamity, says Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee

The Labour mayor has splashed £8,000 on online adverts championing niche local concerns ahead of the June 18 vote.

Much analysis of the Makerfield by-election focuses on what it means for Keir Starmer and the Labour party's national fortunes - but how should we assess it on its own terms?