A regional daily has thrown its weight behind Labour in today’s General Election, saying 14 years of Tory rule has “not been kind” to its patch.

In what is an unsual step for a regional title, the Liverpool Echo urged readers to ‘give chance a chance’ by putting Keir Starmer in Number 10.

In an editorial, the Reach-plc owned title set out a series of issues on which the government has failed the Liverpool city region, saying the impact of austerity has been felt there more than in most places.

At the same time, the newspaper also acknowledged that many of its readers were dismayed by Sir Keir’s decision to engage with The Sun, which yesterday endorsed Labour for the first time since 1997.

The editorial stated: “Endorsing Labour was not a decision taken lightly. The Liverpool Echo has always been a political publication reflecting our readers’ priorities and values. But we’ve never been party political.

“Our role is to champion our amazing city region and to tell the stories of its remarkable people. Sadly, 14 years of Tory rule have not been kind to Merseyside nor to its people. So today we are urging you, our readers, to Give Change a Chance and vote Labour.

“Why? Because we need a government committed to restoring balance to a divided country with a renewed focus on the ordinary people who have suffered most during so many years of austerity.

“And we need a government which recognises Merseyside’s potential, matches its ambition and offers us a fair deal.”

The paper cited Labour’s support for its long-running Hillsborough campaign among the reasons for its endorsement.

“The Liverpool Echo has long campaigned on behalf of the 97 Liverpool fans unlawfully killed at Hillsborough, the family and friends of the victims and the survivors whose lives were changed forever that dreadful day.

“The families were desperate to ensure no one else suffers like they did. We support their campaign for a Hillsborough Law meaning ordinary people caught up in major disasters and scandals have a voice.

“We continually lobbied Labour to implement a Hillsborough Law and were pleased to see this crucial policy in the party’s manifesto.”

However the newspaper acknowledged that not all its readers are happy with Labour’s courtship of The Sun which has been boycotted on Merseyside on account of its coverage of the 1989 tragedy.

It said: “We appreciate many people were angered by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to engage with the S*n. We 100% understand that and have challenged him on several occasions.

“And, should Labour gain the keys to No 10 on Friday, we will continue to hold the new government to account ensuring they deliver on their promises. It is time for change.

“But It is also time for challenge. And be in no doubt if the party does win tomorrow, we will hold it to account on behalf of our communities every single day.”