Being grandad could decide mayor's political future

Becoming a grandfather could be the deciding factor in whether Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram chooses to seek a fourth term in office.

The former Liverpool councillor, who has been regional mayor since 2017, said while he intended to run, "your life changes when you become a grandparent".

If he does run and regain office, his remit will broaden as new powers are invested in the role.

But he said the changing political landscape of Merseyside - where Reform has recently taken control of St Helens Council - meant the next mayoral election could be a closer-run campaign.

He told BBC Radio Merseyside Rotheram said whilst he had won big majorities in previous contests, the 2028 election would different.

In 2017, the constituent councils were all Labour-lead, but as well as Reform's victory in St Helens, the party made further gains in Halton.

Rotheram said: "At this moment in time, it's my intention to be our candidate, Labour's candidate.

"But there's at least 12 months before I have to make a final decision on that."

He acknowledged that the role of Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor will be significantly different in 2028, as it will contain the functions of the Police and Crime Commissioner, a position which is going to be abolished.

More devolved powers would be handed down to regional leaders too in future.

He said "you've got the police, but you've also got the fire and rescue service.

"It's likely that waste at some stage, recycling and waste authority stuff, will come to us."

He added that some aspects of health care budgets could also land on the mayor's desk.

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