The region’s re-elected Conservative mayor Andy Street has said there are “serious challenges” to come as the West Midlands continues to address the pandemic.

Speaking shortly after being declared winner of the mayoral race over Labour opponent Liam Byrne, Mr Street – a former John Lewis boss – said there is “no question that the West Midlands will bounce back strongly”.

Addressing the public, supporters and media at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena where the city’s votes were counted alongside separate counts in the other areas of the West Midlands, he thanked his opponents and team.

He said: “There is no question that the West Midlands faces serious challenges after the impact of Covid, and we have no time to waste in addressing the deep-seated issues exposed by the Pandemic.

“But equally there is no question that the West Midlands will bounce back strongly, and that we will create the dynamic, meritocratic, inclusive society we all crave.

“And why? Why is this not just a political soundbite? Because of our history of defiance, and rebounding after shocks.

“Our natural advantages – the youth, diversity and ingenuity which define big urban centres.

“And now we have clear, ambitious plans for jobs, for investment in transport, housing, skills, and protection of the environment.

“[We have] the support of a Prime Minister and Government firm in their belief in ‘levelling up’, – our determination that all communities across the West Midlands will share in our success.

“So, that’s the mission. We can do it. And together we can show Britain that something very special is being ‘made in the West Midlands’. Thank you for trusting me to lead our endeavour.”

Mr Street won in the second round of results, after no candidate secured more than 50 per cent of the vote in the first round – meaning second preferences were taken into account.

Mr Street took away 314, 669 of the votes while Liam Byrne, MP for Birmingham Hodge Hill, took 267.626.

Liam Byrne has been very gracious. He said he understood what a tough year his competitor (who recently lost his mother) had had.

“To my party, I know this is a bitter blow. This defeat is my responsibility,” he added. “Do not be downhearted.”