A reminder has been issued to Dorset residents that they will need to have a valid photo ID in order to vote at elections later this year.

Elections are scheduled to take place on May 2 for Dorset Council, the Police and Crime Commissioner and all parish and town councils. 

Changes to the way elections are run and how voting takes places were made in 2022 and one of the biggest changes is that voters will need to show photo identification (ID), such as a passport or driving licence, when they go to vote at a polling station.

Ahead of the elections in May Dorset Council is reminding residents that they need to register to vote and make sure they have a valid form of ID.

However, voters who don't have an accepted form of photo ID can apply for a free voter ID document, known as a Voter Authority Certificate.

A spokesperson for Dorset Council said: "On Thursday 2 May you'll have the chance to say who you want to make the decisions about the services we provide, as we go to the polls to elect 82 councillors.

"You must be registered to vote and have a valid photo ID (you can apply to get one for free)."

To find out more on how to check if you have a valid form of ID, to apply for a free voter ID document or register to vote https://orlo.uk/0gEEK