Jeremy Corbyn has given up the fight to win Copeland, it has been claimed, as it emerged he has no plans to visit the constituency before voting day later this month.

Aides confirmed yesterday that the Labour leader will not visit the key seat again, amid reports that the Conservatives may triumph in the area for the first time since 1924.

Theresa May will reportedly visit Copeland later today and Ukip is gaining ground in Stoke, the second by-election Labour is trying to win after two of the party's MPs resigned.