Police and Crime Commissioner nominees announced - time to get registered for the election 2nd May

Residents are being reminded to make sure they are registered to vote in this year's Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Election taking place on Thursday the 2 of May 2024. There will also be a by-election on that day for the Bideford North ward, which became vacant through the sad passing of long serving district and town councillor, Peter Christie.

Police and Crime Commissioners ensure the delivery of an effective and efficient police service within their forces area, with the post up for election every four years. People can find out more about the candidates in the year's election, by visiting Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon & Cornwall Candidates

The deadline to register to vote is midnight of 16 April and voters can quickly and easily register online at Register to vote - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Registered voters also have a range of options for casting their vote on the day, including voting in person, by post, or by appointing someone you trust to vote on your behalf, which is known as a proxy vote.

The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm on 17 April, while the deadline to apply for a proxy vote is a week later, 5pm on 24 April.

Following recent changes in legislation voters are being reminded that they will also need to show photographic ID to vote in person at a polling station. Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a full or provisional UK, EEA or Commonwealth drivers' licence; some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person's bus pass and a blue badge.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for free Voter Authority Certificate online or by completing a paper form which is available from the Council.

Steve Hearse, Returning Officer for Torridge District Council, said:

"Time is running out to make sure you can take part in the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner election. The election is an important opportunity to make your voice heard and have a say on who represents you to be the voice of the people in policing across the region. If you haven't registered to vote, you should go online as soon as possible and complete your application if you want to take part.

"It is important to also remember that anyone voting at a polling station this May will need to show eligible photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. Please make sure you understand what types of ID you can use, and if you don't have any, please apply for a free voter authority certificate before the deadline."

More information on registering to vote, what voter ID will be accepted or how to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate is available can be found at www.torridge.gov.uk/elections  Anyone not able to visit the Council website, or apply for a Voter Authority Certificate online, can contact the Council by calling 01237 428700 or emailing: customer.services@torridge.gov.uk

09 April 2024