News-County Durham elections: Everything voters need to know

The Durham County Council and parish and town council elections will take place on Thursday 1 May, with polling cards delivered to residents from this week.

Anyone currently on the electoral register and eligible to vote in this election will receive a poll card providing details of their voting preference, either voting at an allocated polling station or voting by post or proxy.

Registering to vote

Those who are not registered and wish to vote in this election, and those who have recently moved house and not informed electoral services, are encouraged to register online by 11.59pm on Friday 11 April.

Voter ID

Voters are reminded that they must show an acceptable form of photo ID, such as a passport, driving licence or concessionary travel pass. A full list of accepted voter ID can be found on the poll card or online at the government's website.

People who do not have an accepted form of photo ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. This must be done online before 5.00pm on Wednesday 23 April.

Voting by post or proxy

Anyone who is listed on the electoral register can request a postal or proxy vote by applying online. The deadline for postal vote applications is 5.00pm on Monday 14 April and for proxy vote applications the deadline is 5.00pm on Wednesday 23 April.

Help with voting

For further assistance with registering to vote and filling out application forms, including requesting a paper copy of any of the forms, Contact Electoral Services.