Trinity Mirror’s regional titles across the North have today published manifestos that aim to showcase “what local readers really want” from the general election.
Based on the views of more than 18,000 readers, the ‘My Manifesto’ project aims to cut through the national political agenda and “inform regional voters like no other media outlet can”.
The front page of the Wirral edition of today’s Liverpool Echo
A list of key election demands have been drawn up for 24 Trinity Mirror titles, including the Manchester Evening News, Liverpool Echo and Newcastle Chronicle.
The titles plan to use manifestos to question and lobby local politicians.
Neil Benson, editorial director of Trinity Mirror Regionals, said: “The way our audiences consume news has changed dramatically since 2010. This year we can talk to our readers – via print, social and digital – and crucially listen to them like never before.
“Interestingly, local issues tended to place quite highly on most manifestos, making the role regional media plays in this election even more vital.
“We aim to be the conduit for readers and local politics, channelling their views.
“The MyManifesto project is our first to embody this aim, and we’re proud of the fantastic collaboration across the business.”
Upcoming projects will include digital hustings, interactive maps and Google hangout interviews with candidates.
