ELECTION: Independent says councillors did not do enough for Stalybridge after tornado

An independent candidate has criticised councillors for their reaction to the Stalybridge tornado earlier this year.

Stalybridge North independent candidate Steven Barton said: "It's very, very close. There's a possibility there may be recounts.

"I'm just a Joe Bloggs sort of guy. Labour have had everyone out - they've had Burnham out, they've had Reynolds out, the Mayor's out, I'm surprised Keir Starmer's not been out.

"I got 144 votes last time, but I've learned more now. I think tonight, we'll win.

"People are living in squalor, we have absolutely shocking standards of living.

"Children need somewhere to play and the playing fields are left overgrown."

Mr Barton called for heavy fines for fly-tippers and criticised local councillors for their reaction to the tornado in Stalybridge after Christmas.