HOW many people in Bolton, and the rest of Greater Manchester, are aware that by this time next week they will have a new regional mayor?

This mayor will be elected next Friday, in secret, by the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities and will be either Lord Smith of Leigh, leader of Wigan Council, or Tony Lloyd, Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner. Both are long term Labour politicians.

This unelected mayor will, effectively, be in control of a budget of more than £6 billion and exercise control over the NHS, planning, housing and transport.

This is both undemocratic and an insult to the electorate of the region.

Richard Davies

The Asshawes

Heath Charnock