King of the North Andy Burnham has won the Makerfield by-election and described his victory as a ‘Turning point’. With 55% of the vote to Reforms 35% Labours victory is clear and decisive. Andy Burnham said “Everyone knows that politics isn’t working. Everyone can feel that the country isn’t where it should be. Tonight could, just could, be a turning point. Makerfield will never be a stepping stone to me but instead will be my touchstone.I do say to my own party: this is a final chance to change. This is what people said directly to me on the hundreds of doorsteps that I stood on. We must hear it, we must act upon it and we must get it right. There will be no second chance. It is our last chance to change, but we’re going to take it, aren’t we? We are going to take that opportunity and we are going to lay out a new path for Britain.”
Leader of Labour run Bridgwater Town Council Cllr Brian Smedley (Bridgwater Westover) said “Reform has been defeated in a seat where it won all the council seats only a month ago and people are looking again at Labour as the way to do it. Reform are now ‘losing’ elections, tactical voting is helping and proportional representation is on the cards so that in future people can vote without compromising their beliefs. The message is one of hope against hate. Unity against division. Andy sent a clear message that the Labour Party has to change and people are trusting him to be a big part of delivering that change. We absolutely welcome this victory, the unifying tone of his campaign and that message of hope through the return to labour values.”
Trust
Somerset Council Labour Leader Cllr Leigh Redman (Bridgwater North & Central) said “I was pleased to visit Makerfield recently to support Andy Burnham. The result speaks for itself: a clear and confident win that shows the value of trust, connection and consistent work, the same qualities we need to rebuild across the country. The Labour government has made a strong start, putting down the foundations for long term renewal. We have had important local wins too. But we all know that unforced errors, however small, can have an impact both locally and nationally. This is the moment to stay focused, avoid distractions and keep our eyes on the progress people expect. Communities like ours here in Somerset want clarity, direction and national leaders who listen to local voices while building a strong national picture. Andy’s return offers a constructive reset. He has a proven record of standing up for local people and delivering change from the ground up. This result shows there is real appetite for that approach, for steady and grounded leadership that people recognise and relate to.”
Optimism
Bridgwater Constituency Labour Chairman Cllr Tim Mander (Bridgwater Westover) said “What a great win for Andy Burnham and for Labour in Makerfield. Andy has demonstrated how a united and progressive Labour Party can take on and beat Reform in a part of the world where Reform performed very well in the local elections only a month ago. I welcome the victory and look forward to the next few months with interest and optimism”
Respect
Highbridge Labour Councillor Kate Pearce added “I am thrilled that Andy has won the Makerfield by-election. He has a track record of connecting with and standing up for ordinary people; not forgetting the change and investment in Manchester that Andy facilitated. Looking forward the party needs to find some stability, without the back stabbing and intrigue that has been evident in recent years. We need to respect each other and avoid factionalism. I believe that Andy can bridge the divides in the party and reinvigorate the Government.”
Opportunity
Bridgwater Town Council Culture Spokesperson Cllr Irena Hubble (Fairfax West) commented “I’m delighted to see the strong showing against the politics of hate and division as shown by Andy Burnham’s victory at Makerfield. People want to hear about positive changes, not the politics of division. We can go forward with a future that brings hope with politicians like Burnham. It’s an important opportunity which should resonate throughout the country.”
Full result
