ZORA: NEWHAM STAR POWER

Makerfield proved to be the making of a new prime minister. This extraordinary by-election produced the pivotal moment of this parliament – while illuminating the challenges facing the competing political tribes now.

Andy Burnham ran as Labour’s candidate to change the Labour government – and its leadership, too. It was an unusually positive personal campaign – focused on his back-story, track record and commitment to public service, rather than attacks on his political rivals. His campaign messages - including “northern soul” – were rooted in the north-west of England, yet this often resembled an American candidate’s campaign. Burnham had somehow seemed to conjure up a midterm primary election to qualify to contest the party leadership, having nominated his home town to host it.