Local elections is last chance for Tories to close gap on Labour – here’s a run-down of key battleground contests [Video]

IF this year’s General Election is shaping up to be a prize political fight, then Thursday’s locals are the all-important pre-match weigh-in. 

Both Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer are desperate to show they are a force to be reckoned with – and will be carefully sizing up their chances based on the results.

As a final test for the main parties before the race for No10, they will prove crucial in setting the political weather for the next few months. 

While hundreds of skirmishes will take place for councils, mayoralties and police commissioners, there is a particular focus on several battlegrounds.

Mr Sunak wants to show voters – and restless Tory plotters – that he still has scope to close the gap on Sir Keir.

Whereas the Labour leader will be hoping for the colossal Blair-style swings he needs to overturn …