Macclesfield'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.

Tim Roca 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,

Mr Roca said: "Andy is a proud Northerner who has shown what Labour can achieve when power is put closer to communities.

"Under his leadership, Greater Manchester has become one of the UK's strongest-performing city regions, creating jobs, attracting investment and leading the way on integrated public transport with the Bee Network.

"It's no surprise that more and more people and businesses are choosing Manchester as a place to build their future."

Tim Roca and Andy Burnham pictured in Poynton in 2024 (Credit: Tim Roca MP)

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Mr Roca continued: "I've also seen first-hand what a good friend Andy has been to Macclesfield, always willing to listen, engage and stand up for our town.

"We haven't had a prime minister from the North of England since Harold Wilson.

"I believe it's time we had a leader who understands the strengths, ambitions and potential of every part of our country.

"That's why I'm backing Andy."