THE date has now been announced for the next general election - and candidates in Wyre Forest have been reacting to the news.

Residents will be taking to the polls in six weeks on Thursday, July 4, following Wednesday's announcement by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Conservative MP Mark Garnier will be fighting to keep his seat. Reacting to the July election, he said: “I am delighted that the country and Wyre Forest have been given the chance to vote in the upcoming general election.

"I have, for a long time, been keen to hold the election earlier and that we are now going to the country on the 4th July is a very good thing. It is clear there has been a mood for an election, and now is the time for each of the parties to have their proposals properly tested by the electorate".

Reacting to the announcement on Wednesday, Vicki Smith, Labour candidate for Wyre Forest said: "Bring it on!

"Time for change, time for a Labour government and a Labour MP in Wyre Forest".

Shazu Miah, who will be standing for the Liberal Democrats, said: “I am pleased that the Prime Minister has finally called the General Election. People now have the power to change the direction this country is going and an opportunity to change and to demand a fair deal".

John Davis who is standing for the Green Party said his party will be standing a "full slate" of candidates across the country.

He said many people are "angry" at the lack of action on the environment and climate change over the past 14 year.

Bill Hopkins will be standing for Reform UK. He said the announcement of a 4th of July election is an "absolute shock."

He said: "It's going to be a great challenge against Mark Garnier. It's all hands to the pump".

Those who have not already registered to vote must do so by Tuesday June 18. People can do so by visiting the Government’s website at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

Anyone voting at a polling station will need photo ID.

Ian Miller, the (Acting) Returning Officer for the Parliamentary Constituency of Wyre Forest said: “If you are not certain that you are registered to vote – for example, if you did not receive a poll card for the local elections on 2 May or if you have recently moved into the district - please do not delay in registering to take part in the general election on 4 July. The quickest way to apply is online – you will need to provide your name, address, date of birth and national insurance number.

“Electors voting at a polling station must produce one of the accepted forms of photo ID. If you haven’t got suitable ID such as a photo driving licence, passport or blue badge, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.

“If you wish to vote by post at this election and are not already registered for a postal vote, please apply by the deadline of 5pm on Wednesday 19 June. Anyone can choose to vote by post, and this will provide a practical option for anyone who will be going away on holiday shortly before 4 July.

“If you will be away from your normal address from mid-June and will not have returned by 4 July, you will need to apply for a proxy vote where you appoint someone to cast the vote on your behalf.”