The latest data on party donations has revealed that Labour raised £1.3 million less than the Conservatives in the second quarter of this year.

Electoral Commission returns for the three months to June show that Millbank secured just £591,052. The downturn in reportable donations comes as the party faces a £6 million overdraft.

The Labour party's latest top donors are theatre impresario Bill Kenwright - who gave £200,000 - and stockbroker Charles Peel, who donated £50,000.

Another significant cash sum, £25,000, comes from advertising boss Sir Frank Lowe, who has invested £2 million in a flagship Brent "privatised" City Academy.

But as Labour experiences a cash shortfall, the Tories appear to be surging ahead.

Despite the party's poll woes, the Conservative coffers were boosted by £1,977,807 over the three month period - more than double Labour's efforts.

The Liberal Democrats continue to trail both the main parties - bringing in £214,671.