REDDITCH voters are being reminded that the first Police and Crime Commissioner Elections take place on Thursday, November 15 and to make sure they are ready to vote.

Polling stations across West Mercia will be open from 7am to 10pm on polling day. Postal votes have been sent out and must be returned to the Local Returning Officer by 10pm on polling day otherwise they will not be counted.

A council spokesman said: “Voters need to check in advance where their polling station is and plan what time they intend to cast their vote to avoid missing their chance to vote.

“In just a few days voters will have the chance to elect their Police and Crime Commissioner and it’s really easy to cast your vote whether doing so by post or by polling station.

“It could make a big difference to policing in your area – so make sure you’re ready to vote.”

Standing in the West Mercia force area will be Adrian Blackshaw, the Conservative Party candidate, Bill Longmore, an independant candidate, and standing for the Laour Party will be Dr Simon Murphy.

Information about the candidates can be found at choosemypcc.org.uk or people can call 0800 1 07 07 08 to ask for information to be sent to them.
Police and Crime Commissioners will be elected using the Supplementary Vote system. Voters should put a cross for their first and second choice candidates in their respective columns.

More information is available at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk , or call the helpline on 0800 3 280 280.

The Electoral Commission’s booklet was sent to 21 million households across England and Wales in late October.