Voters head to the polls soon across Cheshire West and Chester to have their say in the local government elections.

It will be the first local elections in the borough since 2019, with all 70 seats across 45 council wards being contested. This year will also be the first where voters have been required to show photo ID when they head to the ballot box.

Cheshire West is currently under no overall control but is run by a minority Labour administration.

At this year’s elections on Thursday, May 4, depending on their ward, residents will be able to choose from candidates which include Labour, Conservative, Green, Liberal Democrat, Reform UK, Trade Unionist and Socialist, Alliance for Democracy and Freedom, as well as a number of independents.

Different wards have differing numbers of councillors depending on their population sizes, with some just returning one councillor and others returning multiple councillors on May 4.

More than 230 local authorities have elections this May, with around two thirds of the country going to the polls, and it will be the first time that photo ID is required for all voters at all local elections.

The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils in England and Wales, is also urging people to treat polling station staff with 'patience and respect' as they implement the new changes.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, chairman of the LGA's People and Places Board said:

"Voting in a local election is really important in setting the future direction of your local community. However, we want to make sure that no one misses out on their chance to vote next month.

"As voters across the country receive their poll cards, make sure you check that you have approved ID and bring this to your local polling station when you vote.”

Acceptable forms of photo ID include: UK-issued passport or driving licence, bus pass, blue badge, PASS proof of age card. A full list of acceptable photo ID can be found here.

Anyone who does not have photo ID  has to apply for a voter authority certificate. Applicants need their National Insurance number or other documents (which must be scanned in or uploaded), such as utility bill, council tax statement, birth certificate, and a passport-style photograph.

Cllr Bentley added: "If you don't have approved ID, apply for a free voter authority certificate online on the Government website or in person from your local council.

"Councils will be working around the clock to process voter authority certificate applications and ensure the election day goes smoothly. We’d urge people to treat all polling station staff with respect and patience as these new changes are implemented.”

Residents  have until April 25 to apply for a free voter authority certificate online here.

A full list of candidates for the Cheshire West and Chester elections can be found here.