Big Beast backs David Miliband's bid to lead Labour

David Miliband's Labour leadership bid received a boost when he was backed by veteran left-winger Dennis Skinner yesterday.

The so-called "Beast of Bolsover" said he believed the shadow foreign secretary was the candidate who would fare best against David Cameron.

Mr Skinner has been a perennial maverick throughout his four decades in parliament, and holds totemic status for many on Labour's Left.

In quotes posted on Mr Miliband's website, the Bolsover MP said: "The big question is who are the Tories afraid of? Who is the best candidate to stand up against Cameron at the despatch box? Who has the best chance to beat Cameron in an election?"

"For me the best choice is David Miliband."

Mr Skinner had originally nominated back-bencher Diane Abbott for leader, as she was struggling to get enough support to make the final ballot.

The winner of the contest is due to be announced on the eve of this month's party conference.