Cotswold District residents are required to show a photographic ID to vote in person at the Police and Crime Commissioner elections.

The elections will be held on May 2.

Accepted forms of ID include UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Commonwealth passports, a UK, EEA or Commonwealth photo driver’s licence; and concessionary travel passes such as an older person’s bus pass.

Voters will be able to use expired IDs if they are still recognisable from the photo and the name on the ID should be the same name as appears on the Electoral Register.

Only original documents will be accepted; scanned images or copies will not be accepted.

Residents without an acceptable form of ID have until 5pm on April 24 to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.

Applications can be made online at voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk or through a paper form available from the council.

Those looking to hand in postal votes on the day of the election are also reminded that the rules for doing so have changed.

Electors handing in postal votes at polling stations or council offices must complete a form.

If the form is not completed, the postal vote will be rejected.

No more than five postal votes plus residents' own can be delivered by hand.

More information is available on the Cotswold District Council website.

Robert Weaver, local returning officer for Cotswold District Council, said: "Anyone voting at a polling station in England this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper.

"It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it.

“There are only a few days left to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate and I would encourage everyone to check they have valid ID. If you need any help with applying for the free ID, or want to request an application form, please contact us.

“I would also ask people to check in with elderly neighbours, friends and family to make sure they understand the new ID requirements and have ID in place.”

Anyone not able to visit the council website, or apply for a Voter Authority Certificate online, contact the council by calling 01285 623002 or emailing elections@cotswold.gov.uk.