How team Burnham finally cleared the first of many hurdles on route to Westminster

Andy Burnham, the northern mayor, is currently working to secure a return to parliament, a move that represents a critical step in his broader ambitions to reach No 10.

The effort to return to Westminster has been supported by a dedicated circle of allies. For several weeks, these supporters have urged members of parliament to hold the line, asserting that Burnham has a specific seat in his sights and is positioned to be a viable contender in any future leadership contest.

Despite the current momentum, the path toward the highest office in government has been marked by a series of setbacks. The trajectory of his political career has been characterized by more failed attempts than those of nearly any other contemporary politician.

This history of obstacles includes two unsuccessful bids in leadership contests. Burnham faced a previous block that prevented a return to parliament in Gorton and Denton.

The mayor’s ambitions have also created internal friction within his own political sphere. In the north west, several aggrieved members of parliament have spent weeks rejecting suggestions that they should vacate their seats to make way for his return.

While the mayor has cleared some initial hurdles, he remains only one step along the road toward his ultimate goal of leading the country.