“For Nigel Farage, the Makerfield result is crushing. His party’s senior leadership expected to be the story of the night. Instead, it fell more than 9,000 votes short and was relegated to a footnote”21:32, 19 Jun 2026Updated 21:33, 19 Jun 2026Voice of the Mirror has its say…Andy Burnham’s win in Makerfield was not protest noise. It was proof that voters still have not given up hope that Labour can deliver the change they were promised.Crucially, they did not turn to Reform in frustration. Instead, they turned out in greater numbers and backed Labour to finish the job. That is renewal, not rejection.For Nigel Farage, the Makerfield result is crushing. His party’s senior leadership expected to be the story of the night. Instead, it fell more than 9,000 votes short and was relegated to a footnote.But Labour cannot simply celebrate. The result has forced a timetable onto a choice it can no longer avoid.Sir Keir Starmer says he will not walk away, but that cannot shield him from the urgency of this message. The question is not whether Labour needs a new face. It is who charts its new and faster course.Drift and denial are no longer options for Labour. For now, trust has been renewed. It will, however, not survive further months of inaction.Please, think twiceBritain could face its hottest June day on record next week, with temperatures forecast to hit 34C. As the heat builds, so will the temptation for youngsters to cool off in rivers, lakes and reservoirs.One of our Save Lives for Sam campaign messages is a simple plea: please, think twice. Cold water can kill within minutes, whatever the temperature and however strong a swimmer you believe yourself to be.Last month’s heatwave claimed 19 lives, including 13 children. That is exactly why we launched our fight, and why the Mirror will keep going until every young person understands the danger.We urge ministers to bring campaigners, experts and families together before the school holidays begin, when most of these needless losses happen.Every drowning is a tragedy. Almost every one can be prevented.Kick in the teethWorld Cup fever is high, and the Premier League fixtures are now out, so fans are daring to dream again.But as clubs bank huge TV riches and players earn millions, season ticket rises are a kick in the teeth.As clubs grow richer and players earn more, they must remember supporters hit by the cost of living. Loyalty should not be exploited.
