Polling stations have opened in the Greater Manchester mayoral vote after Andy Burnham stepped down, setting up a contest to choose the region’s next mayor and Combined Authority leader. Voters across the city region are heading to the ballot box to decide who will take on one of the most important local political jobs in Greater Manchester.
The election was triggered by Burnham’s resignation after he became an MP in last month’s Makerfield parliamentary by-election. Under the rules, MPs are not allowed to serve as mayor, which meant he had to give up the role. His move cleared the way for a fresh contest that will determine who leads the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, known as the GMCA.
Polling stations opened at seven in the morning, BST, and will remain open until ten at night. The result is expected on Friday, with votes to be counted beginning at about ten in the morning. The process will involve all ten Greater Manchester districts, each with its own returning officer responsible for checking and counting ballots in that area.
Residents who are eligible to vote should have received a polling card before election day. That card includes the address of the nearest polling station and other key details, though voters do not have to bring it with them. They will still need to give their name, address and acceptable voter ID, such as a passport or driving licence, before receiving a ballot paper.
