Voters will need to show photo ID at polling stations before they can receive their ballot paper. This is a new requirement introduced by the UK Government that comes into effect for the first time at the May elections.

Accepted forms of original photo ID documents include the UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA driver’s licence; some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card; and the new free Voter Authority Certificate. A full list of accepted ID can be found by visiting www.rugby.gov.uk/voterID. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Voters will be required to present their photo ID at the polling station, where it will be checked by polling station staff. This can be done in a private area if preferred.

Aftab Razzaq, Returning Officer for Rugby Borough Council, said: “With one week to go, make sure you will be able to vote at the elections on 4 May. Check that you have an accepted form of photo ID and remember to bring it with you to the polling station on election day.

“We do not want anyone to miss out on their opportunity to vote."

Craig Westwood, Director of Communications at the Electoral Commission, said: “Anyone voting at a polling station in England will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. Before you head to the polling station on Thursday, don’t forget to check your bag, wallet, or pocket to make sure you have the ID you need to vote.

“If a voter has concerns about showing their face at a polling station, because they wear a face covering for example, they can ask to have their ID checked in private. They won’t need to give a reason for their request or explain why they’d prefer privacy. Staff will be trained to handle requests for ID to be checked in private, discreetly and with courtesy.”

If voters lose their ID or their Voter Authority Certificate does not arrive in time for election day, they can appoint an emergency proxy to vote on their behalf up until 5pm on election day. The person appointed as a proxy, voting on someone else’s behalf, must have their own acceptable photo ID.

For further information on the local election in Rugby see www.rugby.gov.uk/elections.