Andrew Western, who secured 70% of the vote, declared “the British people are giving up” on the Conservatives.

Labour had been expected to retain the Greater Manchester seat, which they have held since it was created in 1997, and saw an 11% swing from the Tories.

But the fact the result was in little doubt, plus the bitterly cold weather on polling day, led to only a quarter of eligible voters turning out.

Mr Western, who leads Trafford Council within the Westminster constituency, achieved a majority of 9,906.

The 37-year-old succeeds Kate Green, who resigned last month after being nominated as deputy mayor of Greater Manchester.

Mr Western said the result sent out a “strong message”, showing 12 years of Conservative government was “coming to an end”.

The Conservative Party’s Emily Carter-Kandola trailed second with a 16% share of the vote.

By Kevin Fitzpatrick, political reporter, BBC Radio Manchester

As expected, this was a resounding victory for Labour.

The freezing temperatures on polling day and a lack of jeopardy appear to have contributed to a low turnout but it’s the percentage share of the vote that the parties are focused on.

By-elections are always tricky for a party of government and this one – in a Labour stronghold, in a cost-of-living crisis – was always going to be harder than most for the Tories.

But it does all add to the growing sense of momentum that Labour are building as they become increasingly bullish about their chances of returning to power at the next general election.

Mr Western said the by-election “must hold the record for the coldest polling day” and thanked voters who had braved the -6C conditions to back him.

“It’s clear from the result, and from the conversations I have had with voters throughout the campaign, that the public want a general election,” he said.

“The Tories have given up on governing and it is increasingly clear that the British people are giving up on them.”

“Labour stands ready to deliver for our country and only Labour has a plan for working people and to create a fairer, greener, future,” he said.

Another factor in the low turnout may have been problems with postal ballots amid ongoing industrial action.

Mr Western’s victory is Labour’s second by-election win this month after the party comfortably held the City of Chester seat.

Stretford and Urmston by-election: full results