Poll cards, with information about where to vote, have been issued to eligible voters. Polling takes place between 7.00am and 10.00pm.

“It is important that everyone who is eligible uses their vote in the council by-election on 19 November,” said Returning Officer Des Murray.

“The council runs a range of local services, such as schools, roads, parks, housing, and waste services, and elected members represent local residents on issues affecting them, their families and communities. So I would encourage residents to use their vote and have their say on local issues.”

Safety measures will be in place at the polling places, including physical distancing, a limit on how many people are allowed inside at one time, and regular cleaning of polling booths. Hand sanitiser will be available and voters must wear a face covering. New pencils will be available for each voter or they can bring their own.

This by-election will use the single transferable vote system.

This means that ballot papers should be marked in order of preference – starting with the figure 1 for your most preferred candidate up to figure 6 or 7 for your least preferred candidate. Voters can mark as many or as few candidates as they wish.

If anyone has not received their polling card, contact the council’s Election Office on 01698 302119