Labour's Bev Craig elected mayor of Greater Manchester, replacing Andy Burnham
Bev Craig has been elected as the new Mayor of Greater Manchester, becoming the UK's first female metro mayor. She succeeds Andy Burnham, who recently became Prime Minister, following a by-election victory over Reform UK's Sian Astley.
Why it matters
This election marks a significant shift in regional leadership and sets a precedent for female representation in high-level UK local government.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, Bev Craig said she felt humbled to be elected as Greater Manchester's Mayor
Labour's Bev Craig will succeed Andy Burnham as the new Mayor of Greater Manchester.
After no candidate secured outright victory in the first round by winning more than half of the vote, Craig beat Reform UK's Sian Astley by 309,525 to 157,178 after second-preference votes were added.
The by-election for a new mayor was called after Burnham was elected as MP for Makerfield in Greater Manchester in June, paving the way for him to become Prime Minister earlier this month.
As well as having led Manchester City Council since 2021, Craig is Greater Manchester Combined Authority's deputy mayor for economy, business and inclusive growth.
Who is Greater Manchester's new Mayor Bev Craig?
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