Greater Manchester mayoral candidate: Andy Burnham

Labour's Andy Burnham

People living in Greater Manchester's 10 boroughs will elect their next mayor on 2 May. Here's what you need to know about all of the candidates and their top priorities.

Labour's Andy Burnham is seeking a third term as mayor

Before being elected as Greater Manchester's first mayor in 2017, Mr Burnham was Labour MP for Leigh. The now 52-year-old held several cabinet roles, including health secretary.

He says he is 'more energised than ever' about leading the region

Mr Burnham says he is proud of his seven years in office, adding: "What I said I would do, I have done." He lists supporting young people, working to reduce homelessness, improving policing, and bringing bus services back under public control among his achievements.

He wants to further improve public transport

Mr Burnham says he intends to integrate eight local train lines into Greater Manchester's Bee Network by 2028, with passengers able to tap in and out to pay their fares. On the buses, he wants to offer half-price travel for 18 to 21-year-olds buying an annual pass.

He wants to offer a broader range of Further and Higher Education options

The introduction of the Greater Manchester Baccalaureate (Mbacc) for technical education would be an alternative to going to university.

Mr Burnham wants a better deal for renters

Under a Good Landlords Charter, he says he wants to improve the quality of rental properties and give tenants more rights and councils greater enforcement powers against irresponsible landlords.

He wants to better support people on benefits

The GM Living Well plan would see Greater Manchester take control of the region's Department for Work and Pensions budget. It could lead to Job Centres being renamed Live Well Centres.