Congleton's MP has backed Andy Burnham to be the next Prime Minister.

Nominations for the Labour Party leadership election officially opened on Thursday, July 9.

Sarah Russell has put forward the recently elected MP for Makerfield, who looks set to run unopposed.

Should no other candidates join the race, Mr Burnham will be declared party leader and prime minister later in July, just weeks after making his return to Parliament,

Mrs Russell said: "I have nominated Andy Burnham as Labour's next leader and prime minister.

"My priority is ensuring that our area is prosperous and has good public services – and I want the same for the country as a whole.

"Andy's promise of a Number 10 North is really positive for our communities.

"He has a talked publicly about wanting to work more cross-party and with business – all of which I support.

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"The Labour government has already delivered on our promises to stabilise the economy, increase investment in public services, and improved Britain's standing on the world stage.

"Andy can build on these achievements, renew our emphasis on tackling the cost of living crisis, and continue to deliver on our 2024 manifesto commitments.

"I feel really hopeful."