On May 22, Newham residents have the opportunity to vote in elections for your local councillors, a Mayor of Newham and for a Member of the European Parliament.

Every resident who is registered to vote by May 6 has the chance to decide who they want to represent them.

Election campaigns are something that all candidates look forward to. It is a chance to set out our vision for the future of Newham, see whether local people value the changes that are happening in the area and explain how our vision can be translated into policies that will make real differences in these tough economic times.

The ballot box is the ultimate way for all candidates to be accountable to you. Voting is an important part of being a Newham resident as democratic politics have the potential to change lives for the better.

The council still faces huge challenges with an increasing demand for services against a backdrop of huge funding cuts and we know there is more to do.

Newham residents have made their priorities clear – a cleaner and greener Newham, action to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, support to give children the best start in life and a focus on creating jobs and a stronger local economy.

It will take continued hard work to ensure Newham residents enjoy the same opportunities and living standards as people in the rest of London. Our optimism is set against the realities of the economic climate. We have to respond to the difficulties hard working residents are facing.

Whoever you choose to elect on May 22 will have huge challenges to face. By ensuring you are registered to vote by next Tuesday, May 6, you can ensure you are able to vote for what you value most.