A doctor from Hinchingbrooke Hospital is the latest Labour supporter to announce he will be vying to become the party’s candidate in next year’s election to be mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

Dr Nik Johnson, a paediatrician and political campaigner, announced his hopes of being selected to represent Labour on his Facebook page last night (Wednesday).

He is the fourth Labourite to throw his hat in the ring for the party’s selection. Peterborough City Councillor Ed Murphy, Cambridge City Councillor Kevin Price and Samuel Sweek vice-chairman of the Huntingdon Labour Party, have also said they want the role.

Elections for the mayor will take place in May 4 next year after all seven councils in the region voted through a devolution deal which will see a new combined authority created.

Dr Johnson, stood as a Labour candidate for the Huntingdon seat at the 2015 general election.

In a statement, he said: “I am sure there will be plenty more words and discussions in the future and I will do my very best to answer and feedback on any questions.

“I am very excited by the prospect and grateful for all the support and encouragement given to me.”

Heidi Allen, MP for South Cambridgeshire is the first Conservative to announce she wants the role, and businessman Peter Dawe has announced his intention to stand as an independent.

The new combined authority will have responsibility for aspects of transport, key roads, strategic planning and control of a £100million housing and infrastructure fund.

The elected mayor will also be given control of an additional £20million funding allocation for 30 years to boost growth.

The treasury could also give the county a further £70m million over five years to meet housing needs.

Leader of Cambridgeshire County Council, Councillor Steve Count, has said he believes that the deal is a “once in a lifetime chance” to improve the lives of residents.