The candidates to fill the vacant Cannon Ward councillor position have been announced.

Mark Kenny stepped down from his role earlier this month, citing health concerns as a major reason.

As a result of the resignation, a by-election will now be held to fill the empty seat.

The nomination process for candidates opens on May 16 finished on May 23, with five nominees having thrown their hat in the ring.

These are:

Labour - Ryan Barnett

Lib Dem - Jenifer Gould

UKIP - Andrew Mills

Green Party - Susie O'Connor

Conservative - Michael Paterson

The Wimbledon Times then approached each political party and asked each candidate to spell out why they should be the new Cannon Hill councillor.

Of the five, Labour, Lib Dem, Green Party and Conservatives responded by the time of this article.

Here is why Ryan Barnett thinks he should be the Cannon Hill councillor.

“I was born at St Helier Hospital and live in Haynt Walk. I want to represent my fellow residents to ensure they have access to the best possible local services.

"Having attended Hillcross and Joseph Hood, I am alarmed by Tory and Lib Dem cuts to school funding and the Tories’ record with the NHS. I know that a Labour-led local council is the best line of defence against cuts to vital services, I’ll fight hard to keep our hospital and fund our schools properly.

"Residents deserve a safe Cannon Hill. Merton’s Labour Council is introducing 20mph zones. I will press for these to be delivered around our school gates as soon as possible.

"I will work hard with fellow Councillor Pauline Cowper, to ensure the council moves on illegal encampments safely and fairly from the Common.

"Local people need strong representation in the face of chaotic Tory government. My combination of professional experience, personal commitment, and local knowledge means I can offer that crucial representation.”