Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleDavid MaddoxWednesday 17 June 2026 08:35 BSTReform's Rob Kenyon refuses to apologise to Carol Vorderman for 'crass' commentA Reform UK board member has admitted that Andy Burnham's influence is making Thursday’s Makerfield by-election very challenging for the party.Internal Reform UK data suggests the party is facing a comfortable defeat, with Labour predicted to win by approximately five points.The data indicates that Rupert Lowe’s Restore Britain is set to split the right-wing vote, hindering Reform UK's prospects of victory.Predictions estimate Labour will secure around 45.5% of the vote, Reform UK 41%, and Restore Britain 5%.Reform insiders have cited a 'disastrous candidate selection' and the party's inability to counter Restore Britain's impact as significant weaknesses.In fullEven Reform’s own data suggests it will lose Makerfield by-election, insider saysThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in