Labour had their chance – they flopped. Two days in Makerfield show me the scale of Burnham’s task
Touring this bitterly divided constituency, what strikes you most is people want something better. But what exactly?
TL;DR
- Makerfield constituency shows signs of economic hardship with shuttered shops and a sense of waiting for improvement.
- A young voter expresses disillusionment with Labour's past performance and is considering Reform for its focus on national priorities and immigration.
- Another resident, who supports Andy Burnham, fears the rise of Reform, linking it to historical fights against racism.
- Concerns about crime and personal safety, particularly among women, are significant drivers of support for Reform.
- Despite Reform's strong presence in local campaigning, bookmakers favor Burnham to win the Makerfield byelection.