Want to vote by post in May's local election? Here's how.

Following the announcement from the government that elections will go ahead across the country on Thursday, May 6, Herts County Council will ensure Covid-secure measures will be in place to make every polling station safe, there is also the option to apply for a postal or proxy vote.

Those residents who would prefer to vote by post, particularly those who have been identified as clinically extremely vulnerable, are being urged to apply now if they have not already done so, as a higher than usual number of applications for postal votes are expected.

To register for a postal vote you must be registered to vote first.

This is a safe and secure way to vote and enables you to cast your vote ahead of election day.

The deadline for receipt of applications to vote by post for these elections is 5pm on Tuesday, April 20, though you should apply as soon as possible.

If you are unable to get to the polling station, or do not wish to attend in person, you can also apply for a proxy vote which means that you can appoint someone you trust to vote on your behalf.

Preparations are well underway to enable the polls to go ahead safely in a way which is Covid-secure for voters and staff.

People who are keen to vote in person on will be asked to:

- Wear a face covering

- Bring their own pen or pencil

- Use hand sanitiser, which will be available in each station, as they enter and leave

- Keep a two-metre distance away from others when entering or leaving the polling station.

At each polling venue screens for polling clerks and distance markings for voters will be set up.

Frequent touch points, like door handles and voting booth tables will be cleaned after each voter has cast their vote.