Local elections are being held across Tyne and Wear next month.
Voters will go to the polls on Thursday, May 4, to elect councillors across the region. While the five areas where elections are being held are dominated by Labour, there are sure to be plenty of interesting stories to watch come polling day.
There is also a major change coming into force at polling stations this year, with voters now being forced to show photo ID in order to cast their ballot. Here is a guide to what is happening the North East on May 4:
