A crucial byelection in northern England on Thursday could well trigger a change in Britain’s prime minister – and soul-searching for Nigel Farage.

If the Greater Manchester mayor wins in Makerfield, his route to the top job will be clearer than ever.

About 75,000 voters in northwest England are about to make a significant decision

Rupert Lowe’s right-wing challenger could tip the balance in Makerfield – and Westminster