Bev Craig: “Greater Manchester is a special place – from the Industrial Revolution, the trade union and co-operative movements and…”

So it's absolutely fantastic that in two weeks since becoming prime minister, he's coming good on his long-standing beliefs around power and control.

So, the hard work begins. I’ve done it with a promise and a plan, and my promise to you is that I will leave this city region better.

I will rise to his challenge about taking the power and control that he is offering mayors like me to make our regions better.

I never believed as a girl growing up on a council estate that one day I would have the chance to stand for the place that I love.