Green quits Tees Valley mayor race ‘to prevent vote split’

Labour’s Mr McEwan said: “I can categorically say there have been no discussions and no deals.

“I have held no discussions and am highly confident none of my team have.”

He highlighted his party’s green strategies nationally and said the Tees Valley had a “significant and massive potential” to benefit from green industries.

The Green Party said it was disappointed Ms Bunce’s “short-notice” decision meant people in the area would not have the opportunity to vote for its policies.

Liberal Democrat candidate Simon Thorley said he was focused on his own campaigning but wished Ms Bunce well.

He added: “It’s sad to see her departure as she is a very passionate campaigner for the environment and causes in the region and believes very strongly in what she stands for.

“I am standing on my own merits as a candidate. This is not a referendum on Ben Houchen, it is the process of electing a mayor to make decisions for the next four years.”