Corbyn joins Labour leadership race

Nominations for the Labour leadership contest have closed, with veteran left-winger Jeremy Corbyn securing the support needed for a place on the ballot.

Shadow health secretary Andy Burnham, shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper and shadow health minister Liz Kendall were already set for a place on the ballot paper, having each secured more than the minimum 35 formal endorsements from MPs.

A late surge for Mr Corbyn saw him reach the required number needed to secure his place in the contest, which will involve a series of public and televised hustings over the coming weeks.

His fellow Labour left-winger, John McDonnell, said: "As Jeremy's agent, I can confirm that he is on the Labour leadership ballot paper with 35 nominations. Thank you everyone."

More on the Labour leadership election from The Huffington Post.