On May 3, residents in Merton have the chance to have a say on how their town is run, how their money is spent and who represents them.

The local elections, every four years, are a chance for voters to have a say and take part in the democratic process.

Councillors make decisions on care of children and adults, health, housing, environment and setting council tax.

Residents in the borough will have the opportunity to choose from the 208 candidates contesting the 20 council wards.

Merton is currently controlled by the Labour party which currently has 36 councillors.

The Conservatives have 20 councillors, Merton Park Residents have three and Liberal Democrats have the one.

Voting across the 20 wards takes place on May 3, and the results will be published on May 4.