Reform UK gloomy about prospects in Makerfield, as one party source says Labour ahead by 2,500 votes – UK politics live

Result expected around 3am as Labour's Greater Manchester mayor hopes a win over Reform UK will help force the prime minister to step aside

• Polls close in Makerfield byelection as Andy Burnham eyes No 10

• Burnham brings in top economists before possible leadership run

David Blunkett, the former Labour cabinet minister, has suggested that Keir Starmer should stand down after the Makerfield byelection.

In an interview on the BBC's Newsnight, Blunkett suggested that Starmer standing aside would be the best option for the party regardless of whether Andy Burnham wins tonight or loses.