Sacked Cabinet minister Lucy Powell has raced ahead in the Labour deputy leadership contest, according to a poll.

A survey of members found Ms Powell enjoys a huge advantage over her rival Bridget Phillipson - Downing Street's de facto candidate.

Once 'don't knows' were excluded, the former Commons leader was supported by 61 per cent of activists in the research by Survation and grassroots site LabourList.

In contrast Education Secretary Ms Phillipson was backed by just 39 per cent.

Such a result would pose another headache for Keir Starmer, as he faces growing anger in the Labour ranks about his performance.

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A survey of members found Lucy Powell (right) enjoys a huge advantage over her rival Bridget Phillipson (left)

Ms Powell was axed in the reshuffle triggered by the resignation of Angela Rayner.

Her position as the anti-leadership candidate has been cemented by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham - often seen as a successor to Sir Keir - indicating his support for her bid.

Although she is facing one of his current Cabinet colleagues in Ms Phillipson, Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband said last night that he endorsed Ms Powell to speak 'truth to power'.

She was previously a close aide to Mr Miliband when he was party leader.

Mr Miliband told ITV's Peston programme they were 'two excellent candidates'.

'The reason I nominated Lucy was I've worked with her for 15 or more years. I think she can as deputy leader provide the vital link that we need between the Labour Party in the county and the government,' he said.

'I know from my own experience when she worked for me that she certainly speaks truth to power.'

Although she is facing one of his current Cabinet colleagues in Ms Phillipson, Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband said last night that he endorsed Ms Powell to speak 'truth to power'

The poll found 23 per cent of members were still undecided who to back, with the contest not due to conclude until late next month.

Just 25 per cent of Labour members thought the party was headed in the 'right direction', with 67 per cent convinced it is on the wrong track.

Survation said: 'Phillipson is the candidate of 'right direction' members. Powell dominates among the majority who think the party is going the wrong way.'

No10's deputy leader candidate trails 'anti-Keir option' Lucy Powell