Voters reminded to take photo ID to polling stations for general election

Voters are being reminded they will need to show photo ID to vote in the general election on Thursday.

It is the first time photo ID will be required at a general election and the The Electoral Commission is reminding voters of what they will have to show to receive their ballot paper.

Valid photo ID includes a UK, European Economic Area or Commonwealth passport or driver's licence, some concessionary travel passes, like an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card, or a Voter Authority Certificate.

Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Craig Westwood, director of communications at the Electoral Commission, said: "Bringing an accepted form of ID means your voice can be heard at the ballot box.

"Before heading to the polling station, check to make sure that you have the ID you need to vote.

"It needs to be an original version, copies and pictures won’t be accepted.

“If you don’t remember your ID when you arrive at a polling station, you can return with it later in the day."

The polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on July 4.

Postal votes must be returned to a polling station or council offices by 10pm.

For those who lose their ID, or whose Voter Authority Certificate fails to arrive in time, an emergency proxy can be appointed until 5pm on election day.