Today across Allerdale there are Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner elections, and some local government by-elections taking place between 7am-10pm.

Polling stations will be safe places to vote and those people who are voting in person are encouraged to keep themselves and others safe by wearing masks, bringing their own pen or pencil, maintaining social distancing and cleaning their hands upon entering and exiting the stations.

Anyone showing symptoms of Covid-19 is being asked kindly to stay at home.

Andrew Seekings, Electoral Registration Officer for Allerdale Borough Council, said:

"Your poll card will tell you where to find your polling station. Make sure you check the information on your polling card, as your polling station might have changed since the last elections. You do not need your poll card to vote, however, we encourage you to bring it with you to make the process quicker and more efficient. Our staff are advised not to take your poll card from you, so please take it home with you after you’ve voted and dispose of it carefully."  

Ailsa Irvine, Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance at the Electoral Commission, said: 

“If you are voting in person, make sure you remember to bring your face covering and a pen or pencil with you. At the polling station, help keep yourself and others safe by following the safety measures, including sanitising your hands and keeping a safe distance from others.  

“If you are self-isolating or become unwell as a result of Covid-19, you don’t need to lose your vote. You will be able to apply for an emergency proxy vote so that someone you trust can vote on your behalf.”