'I've got a good job but can't afford a lot of basic things'

"IT'S quite terrifying that I have a good job which is reasonably well paid, but I can't afford a lot of basic things," says supply teacher Mark Pillotti.

- DECLAN CAREY

He's on his way back from the pharmacy with a £20 prescription, but he needs new glasses too, which he can't afford at the moment.

He's also due a visit to the dentist but he can't get an appointment anywhere. It's a situation that's left him feeling downbeat about the general election on July 4, and worried about the future.

He said: "I can just about afford to get by with my mortgage and the weekly shop, but I'm having to cut back on essential things.

"I'm worried about poverty and homelessness too, for some people life must be terrible." Hazel Grove is considered to be a desirable part of Greater Manchester to live in, with access to the countryside and close proximity to Stockport town centre and Manchester.

Its had a Conservative MP since 2015, but Mark said he and others in the area are really struggling, and looking for political change.

The last election in Hazel Grove was a close contest between the Conservatives and Lib Dems, with a margin of around 4,000 votes.