MIDDLESBROUGH elected Mayor Dave Budd has confirmed he will not stand for re-election next year.

Labour's Dave Budd became Middlesbrough’s second directly-elected Mayor in May, 2015 after nearly 25 years as a local Councillor.

He has represented Stainton & Thornton and Ladgate wards, and served as Executive Member for Regeneration and as Deputy Mayor.

"It’s been a privilege to serve as Middlesbrough’s elected Mayor over the last three and a half years, and there’s a great deal still to do between now and next May’s election," he said.

“Middlesbrough has come a long way in recent years, and I felt now was the right time to step aside and allow someone else to take up the reins for the next stage in that journey.

“This job is all about making Middlesbrough’s voice heard, regionally, nationally and further afield, making our communities fairer, safer and stronger for all and creating the business and job opportunities that are the lifeblood of a thriving city centre economy.

“There’s a real feeling of optimism and confidence for the future, and a sense of people talking about what we can do, not what we can’t.

“We’ve made great strides towards those goals, and the next elected Mayor is guaranteed one of the best and most rewarding jobs in local government.”