Just hours remain to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate ahead of the Local Elections.

The Electoral Commission is urging people to submit their applications before 5pm today (April 24).

Over 38,000 people have already applied for the certificate, which will be necessary for voters without other accepted photo identification at the upcoming local elections on Thursday, May 2 in England and Wales.

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Craig Westwood, director of communication, policy and research at the Electoral Commission, said: "The deadline to apply for the free voter ID is fast approaching and anyone that needs it should get their application in as soon as they can.

"The free ID helps ensure that everyone is able to take part in the May elections, even if they don’t currently have an accepted form of photo ID."

Potential applicants are advised to contact their nearest authority if they have questions or require support with the process.

Applications can be submitted online or by mailing a completed paper form to the local council’s electoral services team.

Information for the application includes a photo, full name, date of birth, the address at which the individual is registered to vote, and their National Insurance number.