LEIGH MP Andy Burnham has emailed all Labour party members in Bolton urging them to vote for him as a candidate for Greater Manchester Mayor.

The shadow home secretary contacted members across the region as ballot papers were issued —stating that a “high profile” figure was needed for the crucial post.

Mr Burnham is competing with Bury South MP Ivan Lewis and Interim Mayor Tony Lloyd to become Labour’s candidate for the vote next May.

In his email to party members he said: "In these uncertain times, we need a high-profile mayor to get our voice heard. I am asking for your first preference vote in this election to give Greater Manchester a radical Mayor to rival London.

"This major new role will be unique in British politics. It is the first to combine responsibility for the NHS, police and other public services such as housing and transport.

"It is a Cabinet-level job that requires Cabinet-level experience. This is what I can provide. In these challenging times, I can give Greater Manchester a high-profile Mayor to get our voice heard on the national and international stage.

"Just like Sadiq Khan in London, I believe I can best serve our Party by stepping away from an out-of-touch Westminster. Strong Mayors in Greater Manchester and London can give Labour two poles of power that can protect people from the worst of this Tory Government.”