The Conservative Party has named its candidate for next month's Makerfield by-election. Former Mayor of Wigan Michael Winstanley will represent the Tories in the by-election being held in the Greater Manchester constituency on Thursday 18 June.
The by-election was triggered after the resignation of Labour MP Yvonne Fovargue, who had held the seat since 2010. Makerfield has traditionally been a safe Labour seat, with a majority of 6,000 votes in the 2024 general election.
Winstanley, a former teacher and local councillor, said he was 'honoured' to be selected and would focus on local issues such as potholes, NHS waiting times, and community safety. The Conservative Party hopes to make gains in the area, which voted strongly for Brexit in 2016.
Other parties are expected to announce their candidates in the coming days. The by-election is seen as a key test of public opinion ahead of the next general election.
