UNFINISHED business has convinced Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon to stand for a second term in office.

He is seeking re-election in the May 3 poll on the back of completing the regeneration of the town and combating crime and disorder.

Mr Mallon, who became the town's first elected mayor when he stood as an independent five years ago, said there were two reasons why he had decided to stand. He said: "I like to finish what I start. We have made tremendous strides in the regeneration of Middlesbrough and its people over the past five years, but there is still work to be done and I want to see it through.

"Secondly, I want to make good on the promises I have made during my first term."

Outlining his priorities, Mr Mallon said: "If I am elected, the youth agenda will be at the forefront of council business and I estimate it will take up to one third of my time.

"We can predict which children will end up in trouble with the law, be at risk from harm, suffer from poor health or fail at school from a very early age.

"I want to see all relevant agencies linked up and focusing resources towards these children, targeting children in the womb if necessary.

"I want to ensure all children have the best possible education; that they avoid a life of crime or the perils of addiction and are offered every opportunity outside of school be it in the field of sports, the arts or whatever."

Mr Mallon said he intended to push forward with the regeneration of the town.

He said: "Middlesbrough as a town was in decline five years ago, but I believe we have turned things around.

"The strategy we drew up to regenerate the town and its people is working."

He also called on potential rivals to come forward to give voters plenty of choice.

Nominations for the Mayoral position and the 48 council seats have to be submitted by April 4.