Seven candidates confirmed for Greater Manchester mayoral by-election

Voters across Greater Manchester are preparing to elect a new mayor on Thursday, 30 July, following the resignation of Andy Burnham. The by-election was triggered after Mr Burnham returned to Parliament as the MP for Makerfield and subsequently became Prime Minister earlier this month.

Seven candidates are contesting the role, representing a mix of major political parties and independent platforms. Recent polling conducted by Findoutnow between 7 and 13 July suggests that Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig is currently the frontrunner.

The survey of 1,505 residents indicated the Labour candidate could secure around 38 per cent of the first-preference vote, though this would fall short of an absolute majority.

The candidates standing for election

• Sian Niamh Astley (Reform UK): The recently elected councillor for Baguley has stated her campaign will focus on regenerating high streets and improving local communities.

• Geraldine Coggins (Green Party): An Altrincham councillor who is campaigning on a platform of affordable housing, healthier environments, and providing an alternative to Labour leadership.

• Bev Craig (Labour and Co-operative Party): The current leader of Manchester City Council and Burnage councillor, who has highlighted the region's history of progressive movements.

• Phil Eckersley (Conservative and Unionist Party): A Bowdon councillor arguing that mayoral decisions have historically been too focused on Manchester city centre at the expense of outer boroughs.

• Marcus Jonathan Farmer (Independent): Returning to the ballot after previously standing as an independent mayoral candidate in 2017.

• Richard Martin Kilpatrick (Liberal Democrats): A Didsbury West councillor pledging to address the cost of living, improve public services, and deliver regional housing.

• Marlon Scott West (Restore Britain): A campaigner who has focused heavily on pushing for national inquiries into grooming gangs.