THE countdown has begun.

Politicians of all parties are now fighting for your vote ahead of council elections on May 3.

In just a few weeks all seats on Eastleigh council, as well as a third on Southampton and a third on Winchester, will be up for grabs.

In Southampton, key issues will include housing, pollution and infrastructure.

An interesting addition to the mix is the standing of two passionate Kentish Road campaigners.

Lisa Stead will be continuing the fight by taking on council boss Simon Letts in a “David and Goliath” style battle for his seat, while fellow activist Amanda Guest will challenge Labour councillor Hannah Coombes in Shirley.

The pair will stand as independent candidates, under the banner of Putting People First – who have three city councillors in Coxford.

Meanwhile the Greens and Lib Dems will be hoping to make breakthroughs in the city.

In Eastleigh, housing is likely to be a pressing concern with many voters on the doorstep, with five Lib Dem councillors leaving the ruling party in recent months over concerns about plans to build 5,200 homes near ancient woodland between Bishopstoke and Fair Oak.

Residents only have a few more days to register to vote, with the deadline closing on April 17.