THE economy is the big issue for voters at Brent Town Hall as Britain decides who will lead us through the tough times ahead.

After weeks of campaigning the polling stations finally opened this morning welcoming residents to take part in what could be the closest election in a generation.

Mari Flemming, 29, a Brent Council employee, said the economy and taxation were the big issues affecting her decision.

She said: “I think there's a lot more buzz about this election. People are a lot more uncertain and there's a big issue this time around.

“I didn't vote last time. For me it's more of a pull to vote this time around. People at work are quite uncertain, a lot of them are not voting. A lot of people say 'I really just don't know who to vote for'.”

Joan Regan, of Salmon Street, Kingsbury, said she wants to see improvements to the economy so that money can be invested in the future of young people.

She said: “I think the financial world is very important, to put back in place some structure that is good for the youth coming through.

“I think it's vital to get some decent funding in the education system. Health and education are priorities for everybody.

“I think more people will turn out and I think it's important that they do. Let's hope we get someone in there with good ideas.”