Voting begins in crucial local elections: Moment of truth for Rishi Sunak as ... trends now

Rishi Sunak is braced for a moment of truth today as voters deliver their verdict in crucial local elections. 

Polling stations are open with Tories fearing they could lose up to half of the council seats they are defending.

As rebels prepare a fresh coup bid, the PM is hoping that two mayors - Ben Houchen in Tees Valley and Andy Street in the West Mids - can hold on to give him positive news to trumpet. 

But the bleak wider picture was underlined today with a Westminster poll suggesting Labour has a massive 26 point lead, with the Tories on 18 per cent - just three points ahead of Reform UK. 

Most of the council seats up for re-election were last contested in 2021, at the peak of Boris Johnson's popularity as the Covid-19 vaccine was rolled out.

A total of 11 mayoral contests are also taking place, including for the London mayoralty where Sadiq Khan is seeking a third term.

Polls have give Mr Khan a significant lead over against Tory challenger Susan Hall despite backlash on crime and policing issues - although some believe the final result might be closer.

Labour is widely expected to win the Blackpool South Westminster by-election, which also taking place.

Although some council results and the by-election will declare in the early hours of the morning, most of the outcomes will not emerge until tomorrow and Saturday. 

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt tried to manage expectations last night, insisting governments can get 'punished' in local votes.