Nominations close for Bristol mayor - as another candidate drops out of the race

At least 14 candidates have put themselves forward to be in the running to become the first elected mayor of Bristol.

The closing date for nominations was midday today.

The news comes as another independent candidate announced he was stepping down.

Local businessman Andy Thorne has taken himself out of the race and is backing independent candidate George Ferguson.

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The city council confirmed this afternoon that 14 people had agreed to pay £750 to have their election address included in a brochure which will be sent to every voter.

They will each get two pages in the brochure - which is being sent to printers today.

But any of those 14 - who the council have not yet named - could withdraw before Wednesday lunchtime, when a list of the candidates will officially be announced.

There may be more candidates who have not agreed to be in the brochure, but the city council says it cannot yet provide that information to the public.

The brochure is one the council is obliged to provide under government rules.

Bristol voters will get their chance to have their say on November 15.

A list of candidates the Post is aware of is available here.

Already this week, independent candidates Eric Muthc and Craig Clarke dropped out of the race. They are both backing Green party candidate Daniella Radice.

A statement released on Andy Thorne's behalf this afternoon said: "Andrew Thorne has taken this decision with the people and the future of Bristol at the forefront of his thoughts.

"To split the independent vote would play into the hands of the political parties and Bristol City Council would be ‘same as’.

"Mr Thorne is backing Mr Ferguson and wishes him all the best in the future and hopes all the people who voted for change put their faith in George Ferguson to stabilise and create growth and prosperity for the people of Bristol."