Voters in West Oxfordshire who want to cast their vote in person will need to show photo identification at the polling station.

This requirement applies to the local elections taking place on Thursday, May 7.

Eligible documents include passports from the United Kingdom, the European Economic Area, or Commonwealth nations, as well as driving licences with photographs. Discounted travel passes, such as bus passes for older people, are also permitted.

Documents that have passed their expiry date can still be used if the photograph clearly shows the voter’s face.

Giles Hughes, returning officer for West Oxfordshire District Council, explained that anyone voting at a polling station this May must produce photographic identification before being given their ballot paper.

He pointed out that it is vital for residents to understand which forms of identification are valid and how to acquire free identification if needed.

Electors who do not have suitable photographic identification have until 5pm on Tuesday, April 28 to request a free Voter Authority Certificate, which serves as an alternative to other accepted forms of ID.

Applications can be submitted through the website voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk. Printed application forms are available by getting in touch with the council.

Residents without internet access should call the council on 01993 861410 for assistance.

The council is also asking local people to support one another.

Mr Hughes said he would like people to consider checking on older neighbours, friends and family members to make sure they are informed about the identification requirements and have the appropriate documents ready.

On polling day, completed postal votes may be handed in at polling stations or at the council offices in Woodgreen, Witney.