FORMER detective Ray Mallon has a commanding lead in the race to become Middlesbrough's first directly-elected mayor, an exclusive poll by The Northern Echo revealed last night.

He has just over 40 per cent of the vote with his nearest rival, Labour's Sylvia Connolly, trailing on 9.2 per cent. But, most significantly, more than 42 per cent of voters have yet to make their minds up.

Yesterday was the deadline for nominations for the three new-style mayoral contests, which will take place in the region on May 2. Elections are being held in North Tyneside and Hartlepool, but it is the one in Middlesbrough that will command most attention.

Last night, Mr Mallon, who controversially walked away from Cleveland Police after admitting a series of disciplinary charges arising from Operation Lancet, said: "The Northern Echo poll indicates that we are ahead and this confirms the support I have received.

"But, as ever, the poll that counts and is the most important is that on May 2."

Mrs Connolly said the poll showed it was a two-horse race. She added: "People have been very positive on the doorstep and we have very good reason to remain optimistic over the result."

The poll, in which more than 1,000 people were canvassed, showed that just over 51 per cent were planning to vote.