For the first time, residents in Warwick district will need to show photographic ID to vote in this year's local elections.

The spring, residents will head to the polling booths on May 4 and they are being urged to make sure they are ready to vote by checking they have an accepted form of ID.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK, EEA or Commonwealth drivers' licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person's bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card.

Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Chris Elliott, returning officer for Warwick district said: "With elections taking place in our district on 4 May 2023, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they have an accepted form of ID.

"It may seem early but checking now means you will be ready to vote in May.

"Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for free ID either online or by completing a paper application form and sending this to Warwick District Council's electoral services team.

"If you need any help with applying for the free ID or want to request an application form, contact the electoral services team by email [email protected]."

The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station, is a new requirement, introduced by the UK Government's Elections Act which was passed last year and comes into effect for the first time this May.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID online or by completing a paper form.

The full list of accepted ID is available on the Electoral Commission's website, along with more information about the new requirement and details of how to apply for the free ID.

(Header image by secretlondon123 via wikimedia commons)