Voters describe key issues ahead of by-election

Patricia Sullivan, 80, said she wanted to see investment in the town centre

With a week to go until voters choose a new MP in Rochdale, the campaign machines are powering at full speed.

Eleven candidates and their supporters have been out delivering leaflets and talking to residents, hoping their messages will cut through the noise by polling day.

But what do voters want from their new MP?

'Born and bred'

For Patricia Sullivan, 80, they need to champion the town centre and encourage shoppers back.

"This is my home, this is my town, I was born and bred here," she said.

"I'm not going to say I want it how it used to be but stop messing about. It's all talk. That's not going to get us what we want."

Cameron Stevenson said he feels Rochdale has declined in the five years he has lived there

Cameron Stevenson, 26, said: "I've lived here since 2018 and it doesn't feel like it's improved, it actually feels like it's degraded a lot.

"I'd say more affordable housing [is needed] because they're building new houses here that are out of the price range for the working class.

"There's a hell of an issue with fly tipping. It's an absolute disgrace. A lot of change needs to happen in this area."

Donald Farrar said he wanted "someone who knows Rochdale" well

Donald Farrar, 62, believes someone with local knowledge would be best placed to take the town forward.

"They need to get people to come into Rochdale," he said.

"At the moment Rochdale's a run down town.

"There's hardly any shops for local people. Someone who knows Rochdale, it would do us the world of good because they'd know what Rochdale needs and it would be better."

The by-election was prompted by the death of veteran MP Tony Lloyd and will be held on 29 February.

Sir Tony died on 17 January, days after announcing he had an incurable form of leukaemia.