Reform UK has won the Runcorn and Helsby by-election - following a recount.
The Runcorn and Helsby by-election was triggered when former Labour MP Mike Amesbury quit after admitting punching a constituent. The 2024 result suggests it should be a safe Labour seat – Mr Amesbury won 53% of the vote – but Reform’s Sarah Pochin is the bookmakers’ favourite to secure a by-election victory.
Mr Farage said he wanted to “smash the two-party system”.
He said: “We have fought a strong campaign. The two major parties are more fearful of the results tonight than we are.”
The Runcorn and Helsby by-election result is due to be announced in the early hours of Friday - and CheshireLive will bring you the very latest as it happens
This is a live blog. For the very latest from the by-election count follow our live blog below.
Review of the ballots is underway
Acting returning officer for the Runcorn and Helsby by-election Stephen Young said a full recount had “thrown out a number of ballot papers people are suggesting are doubtful”.
Candidates and agents have been called to review the ballots.
Four votes in it as full recount in Runcorn & Helsby by-election
At the Runcorn and Helsby by-election count, acting returning officer Stephen Young said: “Because of the close proximity of the parties, we have agreed to do a full recount of all the ballot papers.”
Candidates say they have been told Reform are four votes ahead of Labour.
It's too close to call
At the Runcorn and Helsby by-election count, candidates have been told votes are being checked as it is “incredibly close”.
Reform UK members had suggested leader Nigel Farage was due to arrive at Halton Stadium for the count, but the politician has yet to make an appearance.
Staff appear to be checking ballots on a number of tables.
