Cheshire East Council is urging people to ensure they are registered to vote – so they don't miss out on having their say in the local elections on 6 May.

People are being encouraged to 'act sooner rather than later' if they require a postal vote, a proxy vote or need to register to vote – as the deadlines are fast approaching.

If you are not registered – and therefore can't vote – you haven't got a voice at the ballot box.

Cheshire East residents will go to the polls to have their say on who represents them as the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire.

Key deadline dates:

â— 19 April – The deadline for registering to vote is midnight on 19 April. You can apply online at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

â— 20 April – Completed forms for postal vote applications must be received by Cheshire East Council's elections team before 5pm; and

â— 27 April – Deadline for completed applications for a proxy vote (5pm).

Cheshire East Council's chief executive Lorraine O'Donnell, who is the Returning Officer for elections in the borough, said: "There are just a few days left for people to register to vote or apply for a postal vote or proxy ballot – so don't leave it too late. It is important that everyone who is eligible is able to have their say in these elections."

Remember: registering to vote does not mean you have to – it just means you don't lose out on the opportunity to do so.

On polling day, Thursday 6 May, for those who choose to vote in person, polling stations will be open between 7am and 10pm. Covid-secure arrangements will be in place, similar to those you might expect in shops and banks, such as hand sanitiser, floor markings and face masks so that voters can vote safely.

When visiting polling stations, voters should wear a face covering (unless they have a valid exemption), bring their own pencil or pen, follow signs and guidance from staff and adhere to social distancing.