Who is ‘King of the North’ Andy Burnham and what is his path to Downing Street?

Andy Burnham has failed twice in his leadership bids. What are his chances now? (Picture: Peter Byrne/PA Wire)

After a dramatic week in British politics, Andy Burnham is being treated as the heir apparent to Sir Keir Starmer as Labour Party leader and Prime Minister.

The path ahead of the Greater Manchester Mayor is far from smooth, but polls suggest he is considerably more popular across the country than the Downing Street incumbent.

And with Labour in deep trouble following a disastrous round of local elections, MPs are clamouring for a swap at the top.

If he is confirmed as Labour’s candidate on Thursday as expected, a massively consequential by-election in Makerfield next month will determine Burnham’s fu...