BURY South MP Ivan Lewis says he is exploring the possibility of running to be Greater Manchester's first elected mayor.

Mr Lewis, who has represented the constituency since 1997, has revealed he is considering seeking the Labour nomination for the role, which is due to be elected in 2017.

The former minister recently returned to the backbenches after losing his position in the Labour shadow cabinet following Jeremy Corbyn's election as leader, despite offering to remain as shadow Northern Ireland Secretary during the country's political crisis.

Mr Lewis said: "The historic and long overdue devolution of power and resources from London to Greater Manchester offers a wonderful opportunity to build on our conurbations tremendous successes over the past two decades.

"I believe my substantive experience in national and local Government and public service commitment over a twenty five year period to the area where I have lived all my life means I could offer a lot to the role of elected Mayor."

Last month newspapers across Greater Manchester, including the Bury Times and The Bolton News, launched a campaign to ensure a fair devolution deal for the region.

The government is committed to granting local leaders more power for key areas including transport, health and planning.

He added: "Newspapers across Greater Manchester are right to highlight the importance of fighting for a fair funding deal from Central Government and developing an open and transparent system of decision-making which ensures proper public accountability and involvement.

"The choice we face in the years ahead is to be battered by the unfair and savage cuts being imposed by this Tory Government or to use our new freedom to build a better future. We must shape a future for ourselves rooted in good jobs, an improved environment, quality public services and a relentless focus on reducing the inequality which continues to deny too many people the opportunity to fulfil their potential.

"This will require the new Mayor working with council leaders to harness the talents and innovation of entrepreneurs, local councillors, civil society and active citizens all committed to a Greater Manchester with a renewed sense of confidence and community pride.

“I will speak to Party colleagues, business people, community activists and my constituents in the period ahead before making a final decision on my candidature."

The role of mayor is currently held on an interim basis by Tony Lloyd.