Anti-racism protesters have gathered outside the Runcorn and Helsby by-election count hall, warning that Nigel Farage is not welcome in Runcorn.
“Nigel Farage we know you, you’re a racist through and through”, the group of around 20 activists from Stand Up To Racism chanted.
Holding up signs saying, “refugees welcome”, the group argued that Reform UK does not represent the values of Runcorn.
Politicians and councillors from Labour, the Tories and Reform UK are anxiously awaiting results as counting begins in local elections and a by-election – the first major test of opinion for Sir Keir Starmer’s government.
In a highly fragmented party system, the votes will show whether Nigel Farage and Reform UK have maintained their high poll ratings since last summer.
The Tories, defending 954 seats, are bracing themselves for heavy losses.
Tory grandees have warned their party against doing deals with Reform UK.
Labour has been particularly keen to win the by-election in Runcorn and Helsby in Cheshire, called when former Labour MP Mike Amesbury was convicted of assault.
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