UKIP have chosen former Labour supporter John Bickley to fight the Wythenshawe and Sale East by-election, the Times has reported.

Mr Bickley, aged 60, grew up in Wythenshawe and was an executive in a blue chip company before launching his own business.

The Europsceptic party has been tipped by bookies to finish second in the election, but some commentators believe they can take the seat from Labour who currently have a 7,000 majority.

Labour’s ruling National Executive Committee are due to shortlist candidates today with constituency members meeting to make the final choice on Friday (Jan 24).