Many Saddleworth residents say they are unaware that a new Mayor for Greater Manchester is set to be elected on July 30, and some feel the area does not get its fair share of attention or resources from the regional authority.

The parish, historically part of the West Riding of Yorkshire, was absorbed into the Greater Manchester region as part of Oldham in 1974. Some long-term residents say that connection has never felt right.

"[Being part of Greater Manchester] doesn't sit very well. It never has," said Christine, who has lived in Saddleworth for 57 years. "As soon as we went over to Greater Manchester, poor relations we are here." She said the area should receive more investment, noting residents pay more council tax than people in Oldham but see little in return, with few facilities for young people.

Others feel differently. Jenna Tett, born and bred in Saddleworth, said the area still feels connected to Manchester, though she acknowledged her father sees it as Yorkshire. "Maybe it's a generational thing," she said.

Roy Turner, who moved to Uppermill from Middleton 15 years ago, plans to vote as usual but said he has seen no campaign material from any of the candidates. He believes a core issue is the perception of unfair funding distribution. "Where is all the money going now? That is what the people are saying around here. You can't get things done," he said.

The election follows Andy Burnham's move to Westminster. Saddleworth is not seen as a key target area in the mayoral race, and a significant number of voters who spoke to a reporter said they did not know it was happening.

For some, local concerns are weighing more heavily than the mayoral contest. Katie, from Greenfield, highlighted ongoing access issues following the fire at Dove Stone Reservoir. "We have a memorial tree for my mother in law and it's alarming we can't get to it," she said, questioning the security of the site.