Manchester local elections candidates revealed

A full list of candidates standing in Manchester’s local elections on Thursday 5 May has now been published.

Voters are going to the polls on Thursday 5 May to elect one councillor in each of Manchester City Council's 32 wards, plus an additional councillor to fill a further vacancy in Burnage. For a full list of candidates visit www.manchester.gov.uk/elections and go to the local elections page.

There are just days left for Manchester residents to ensure they are registered if they want to vote in the city's local elections, and the referendum on the voting system used for elections to the UK Parliament which takes place on the same day.

Applications must be received by Thursday 14 April so would-be voters are being urged not to delay if they want to have their say. This is also the deadline to apply for a proxy vote.

Applying to vote is quick and easy. Residents can download an application form from the Council's website at www.manchester.gov.uk/elections or can ask for a form to be sent to them by post by emailing esu@manchester.gov.ukor by calling 0161 2341212.

Local elections are being held at the same time as a national referendum on the voting system used for elections to the UK parliament. The question being put to voters is: "At present, the UK uses the 'first past the post' system to elect MPs to the House of Commons. Should the 'alternative vote' system be used instead?"

Residents are being encouraged to make sure they are registered so they can use their democratic voice in both votes.

A City Council spokesman said: "If you know you're already on the electoral register there's no need to do anything. But if you're not sure and you intend to vote it pays to check and if you know you're not registered but want to be you should do so as soon as possible.

"Elections are a vital opportunity to influence important decisions affecting Manchester residents' everyday lives."