CONSTRUCTION union Ucatt became the first union to back Andy Burnham yesterday in the race for the next Labour leader.

The decision was made by the union’s executive council following interviews with all the candidates.

But while the union is asking its members to cast their first preference for Mr Burnham, it’s urging them to vote Jeremy Corbyn for their second preference.

Ucatt acting general secretary Brian Rye said: “Ucatt has chosen Andy Burnham as he can lead the Labour Party, understands the concerns of workers and has all the credentials to be Prime Minister.”

For Deputy Leader the union is asking members to cast their first preference for Angela Eagle and their second preference for Tom Watson.

Mr Rye added: “Angela Eagle has the experience, knowledge and maturity to make an excellent deputy leader.”