INTERIM Greater Manchester Mayor Tony Lloyd has announced he will run to be the Labour candidate for the permanent mayoral position.

Mr Lloyd is also the current Police and Crime Commissioner and took on the role of interim mayor last year in a bid to get the ball rolling on the region’s historic devolution deal.

He will now aim to become the Labour candidate to fight in the election for the permanent position — which will take place on May 4 2017.

Speaking after the announcement, he said: “I believe the strength and power of Greater Manchester comes from the strength and power of all its people.

“I want to make sure the voice of Greater Manchester is heard loud and clear by Government — for too long, it has been overlooked and at times, ignored. We need a strong voice to match those of London and Scotland.  “The Tory government has let Manchester down, but there is a message of hope – working together we can make Greater Manchester better.

He added: “I want to deliver a Greater Manchester where all people have a decent, affordable home, access to a good job that pays them a living wage, lifelong opportunities to learn and get new skills, with world class transport and health systems delivered to Britain’s safest and greenest communities.

“I’m here to listen to you and speak out on behalf of our communities. I’m here to stand up to Government to get Greater Manchester the deal we deserve.”