Watford residents reminded to keep it safe for upcoming elections.

Watford 2019 poll cards are being delivered to eligible voters this week, with everyone expected to have received theirs by the end of March.

Watford Borough Council is reminding everyone to hang onto their 2019 poll card and keep it safe, as they will need to present it at their polling station before they can vote in Watford’s local elections on Thursday, May 2.

This is because Watford - along with ten other councils - is taking part in the Electoral Commission’s voter ID pilot in a move to test how best to tackle electoral fraud.

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor said: “I’m pleased that so many residents responded positively to the pilot last year.

“The process we had in our last local elections resulted in increased turnout, greater confidence in the system and there was no evidence of any negative impact on certain groups.

“Local democracy is really important, and we were happy to do our bit again in trialling how to protect voters’ rights.”

Managing Director and Returning Officer for the council, Manny Lewis, said: “The voter ID pilot is straightforward - before people cast their vote in Watford, they will need to show their poll card.

“In case people forget or lose these, they can show alternative ID.”

If you lose your poll card, bring along one of the following:

• Valid passport

• UK or EU photocard driving licence

• Biometric residence permit

• EEA Identity Card

• Northern Ireland Electoral

• Identity Card

• Photo card parking permit (issued as part of the Blue Badge scheme)

• Ministry of Defence Identity Card

• Concessionary travel pass funded by HM Government

• Oyster 60+ pass

• PASS scheme card

If Watford residents do not receive their 2019 poll card by April 1 or if they lose their poll card, they must contact Watford Borough Council on 01923 278369 or email elections@watford.gov.uk as soon as possible. Postal votes are not affected by the pilot.