Reform UK edged Labour by just 33 votes after a recount in a tightly fought Barton and Winton by-election, prompting sharp political reactions ahead of wider local elections on 7 May.
A knife-edge by-election in Barton and Winton has resulted in a narrow victory for Reform UK, with candidate Michael James Felse securing 676 votes to Labour’s 643 following a recount.
The result, decided by a margin of just 33 votes, came amid low turnout, with only 17.82% of eligible voters casting a ballot.
Responding to the outcome, Michael Wheeler described the contest as an “incredibly narrow margin” and reflected on the circumstances surrounding the vote, which followed the death of long-serving councillor David Lancaster.
Wheeler criticised the timing of the by-election, arguing it had been held earlier than residents expected and before Lancaster’s funeral had taken place. He also took issue with remarks made by the newly elected Reform councillor, who reportedly described Barton and Winton as a “real problem area.”
The MP defended the area, highlighting local pride and ongoing investment, and pointed to government-backed initiatives aimed at improving communities. He contrasted Labour’s approach with that of Reform UK, saying Labour focuses on working with residents to address challenges while building on local strengths.
Wheeler acknowledged that Labour must improve how it communicates progress to voters, adding that while changes may not always make headlines, they are “happening, slowly but surely.”
Looking ahead, he framed the upcoming local elections on 7 May as offering a “clear choice” for residents across Worsley and Eccles, urging voters to support Labour candidates.
Labour has confirmed its slate of candidates standing in the area, including Adam Hollis (Astley), John Mullen (Barton & Winton), Mohammad Kashif (Boothstown & Ellenbrook), Nathaniel Tetteh (Eccles), Mishal Saeed (Higher Irlam & Peel Green), Bill McLaughlin and Ceewhy Ochoga (Cadishead & Lower Irlam), Liz McCoy (Swinton & Wardley), Jess Eastoe (Tyldesley & Mosley Common), and John Paul Atley (Worsley & Westwood Park).
Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on 7 May. Voters are required to bring an accepted form of photo ID, with applications for a free Voter Authority Certificate open until 28 April.
