PEOPLE are invited to register to vote by post in the forthcoming elections to make things easier and safer during the pandemic.

The local council, Police Crime Commissioner and West Midlands Combined Authority Mayoral elections are all due to go ahead on Thursday May 6 this year.

While polling stations will be open as normal, albeit with social distancing and other Covid safety measure in place, some people may prefer to vote by post rather than voting in person or by proxy this year.

Letters will be issued to all homes in the coming weeks giving details of residents currently registered as electors.

Kevin O’Keefe, chief executive and electoral returning officer at Dudley Council, said: "It’s really important that people take part in the democratic process despite the pandemic. These elections allow people’s voices to be heard and we want to make sure that everyone who can vote is registered to do so.

"Our polling stations will be open on May 6, but registering for a postal vote may suit a whole range of people from the older and more vulnerable, those who are shielding or simply people who are working that day and who would find a postal vote more convenient."

To apply visit gov.uk/government/publications/apply-for-a-postal-vote.

Alternatively email elections.cexec@dudley.gov.uk or call 01384 814740 to receive a form by post.

All applications must be completed and signed by hand and returned to Electoral Services, Council House, Priory Road, Dudley, DY1 1HF.

A scanned or photo image of completed application forms can also be returned by email to elections.cexec@dudley.gov.uk.

To apply for a postal vote, you must be a registered elector within Dudley. If you need to register go to gov.uk/register-to-vote.