Voters in Tendring are being urged to check they have an acceptable form of photo ID on 21 April.

People planning to vote in polling stations for Tendring District Council, town and parish council elections on 4 May will this year need to show a form of photographic ID from a prescribed list in order to receive their ballot paper after a change in the law.

Dubbed ‘Find it FrIDay’ voters are being urged to take time on Friday, 21 April to check they have an appropriate form of ID.

Anyone who does not has until 5pm on Tuesday, 25 April to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate (VAC) which can be used as their photo ID.

Ian Davidson, the Returning Officer for upcoming elections in Tendring, said it was important people looked for their appropriate photo ID while there was still time to apply for a VAC.

“The introduction of the voter ID requirement is quite a change to how we run elections, and we want to make sure everyone is still able to cast their vote next month,” Mr Davidson said.

“By taking time on Find it FrIDay to make sure you have your photo ID – and that it will be accepted at the polling station – you will be prepared for election day.

“If you cannot find a form of ID from the Government list, or it is not acceptable, then you still have time to apply for the Voter Authority Certificate; which is a quick and easy process.

“We would love to see people’s ‘Find it FrIDay’ activities on social media, so share the strange places you have found your ID using #FindItFrIDay or a picture of you with your ID – just make sure the sensitive details are not visible to all!”

The forms of photo ID you will be looking for will general be a UK passport or driving licence, Blue Badge, older or disabled person’s buss pass, PASS card or Defence Identity Card – but you can see the full list at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/council/elections-and-voting/voter-id.

The name on the ID must match that on the voter’s Poll Card; if not then further proof of identity may be needed. The identity document can be expired, provided the photo is still a good likeness.

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