Pickles 'to be new Tory chairman'

Mr Pickles ran the successful Crewe and Nantwich by-election

Eric Pickles is set to be Conservative Party chairman, as David Cameron continues to reshuffle his front bench.

Mr Pickles, who had been shadow communities secretary, swaps roles with Caroline Spelman, the BBC understands.

Mr Cameron has already announced he is bringing former chancellor Ken Clarke back as shadow business secretary.

Chris Grayling is set to be shadow home secretary, Alan Duncan shadow Commons leader and Theresa May shadow work and pensions secretary.