For his Labour critics, Andy Burnham is just Keir Starmer in a black T-shirt. They mutter that the new MP for Makerfield lacks substance and would be quickly found out as PM. Burnham can enjoy the glow of victory. But the closer he gets to the tough choices of real power, the more the shine

On one side are the Burnham loyalists, exuding confidence with a hint of cockiness. On the other are Starmer loyalists

Makerfield by-election victory could rapidly propel Manchester mayor into Downing Street

The veteran Labour politician will return to the Commons after his by-election victory in Makerfield

Congratulations, @AndyBurnhamGM, Labour’s new MP for Makerfield.Voters chose Labour’s campaign of hope and optimism over division and hate.