NORTH Somerset residents are being urged to register to vote so that they can have their say in the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) election.

The PCC oversees your local police force and ensures that they are prioritising what matters to you, whether it be tackling knife crime or increasing police presence in rural areas.

Avon and Somerset’s current commissioner is Mark Shelford.

Yesterday (Monday, March 18) the notice of election was published, while the nomination period for prospective candidates for the Avon and Somerset Police Crime Commissioner has opened today.

If you wish to vote, you must be on the electoral register.

The deadline to register to vote is midnight on Tuesday, April 16. The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm on Wednesday, April 17.

If you are already registered to vote, you will be receiving your poll card soon.

If you are planning on voting in person, you must bring an accepted form of ID.

Those who are registered to vote at the polling station but do not have an accepted photo ID can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate before the deadline at 5pm on Wednesday, April 24.

The deadline to apply for a proxy vote, which means that someone will be voting in your place, is 5pm on Wednesday, April 24.

Will Godfrey, police area returning officer for the Avon and Somerset Police Area, said: “This election is an important opportunity to make your voice heard and have a say on who represents you on issues that directly affect day-to-day life here in North Somerset.

"If you are not registered by April 16, you won’t be able to vote. Voters will be required to take photo ID with them when they vote in person at the polling station.”

If you have recently reached voting age (18) or have recently moved home, you must ensure that you are registered to vote.

If you were registered to vote in the last election and your details have not changed, you don’t need to take any action. If in doubt, you can check with North Somerset Council’s elections team on 01934 634 909 or by emailing electoral-services@n-somerset.gov.uk.