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Students have been joining the discussion in the run up to the Tees Valley Mayoral Election.

Tomorrow voters aged 18 and above across the Tees Valley will decide who they want to represent them when it comes to matters affecting the combined authority area.

To help students gain a greater understanding of the process, Stockton Riverside College held a discussion cafe and mock vote today Learners of all ages were invited to come and get involved.

"It is a vital duty of colleges to discuss political, social and environmental issues with students," said Painting and Decorating lecturer Tony Ferguson. "We need to encourage students to take part in discussions and debates so that eventually they are able to have a say in their own future rather than just leaving it in the hands of others."

When it comes to choosing the Tees Valley Mayor, Tony said: "For the foreseeable future, this elected mayor will have a direct effect on anyone living within the Tees Valley area. This person will be our public voice when issues of funding and new development are discussed.

"If you don't vote you might have an opinion but it won't be listened to."

Keen to learn more about the process, Business Studies student Wajid Hussain, 17, of Stockton, said: "It is important young people do get involved. I am 17 so I can't vote yet but I do think it is important. It is young people's lives that are going to be represented so it is important to have someone that does represent them."

The new Tees Valley Mayor will represent the combined authority area of Stockton-On-Tees, Middlesbrough, Redcar, Hartlepool and Darlington.

In the running are: Chris Foote-Wood (Liberal Democrats), Ben Houchen (Conservatives), Sue Jeffrey (Labour) and John Tennant (UKIP)

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