LOCAL elections will go ahead in Crewe in May as council chiefs revealed they are preparing measures to keep voters safe.

At the polls on Thursday, May 6 residents can vote in a by-election for the Crewe West ward as well as cast their votes in the election for Cheshire's Police and Crime Commissioner.

There had been some doubt whether local elections would be pushed back into the autumn because of the uncertainty over the easing of restrictions.

But the government has given the go-ahead and Cheshire East Council is already making plans to help people stay safe.

The council says while people can attend polling stations, they can also register a postal vote or appointing someone for a proxy vote.

Returning Officer Lorraine O'Donnell said: "These elections in May are very important – they're an opportunity to make your voice heard and have a say on who represents you on issues that directly affect day-to-day life in Cheshire East.

"We're planning for these elections now so that, however you choose to cast your vote in May, you can do so safely. We're putting arrangements in place to help you stay safe at the polling station, if you choose to vote in person.

"You can expect many of the measures you've become used to in shops and banks over recent months, such as hand sanitiser, floor markings and face masks. But you also have the option to apply to vote by post or by proxy, if this is your preference."

In Crewe West three candidates have already declared their intention to stand; Connor Naismith (Labour), Teja Vaddala (Conservative) and Brian Silvester (Putting Crewe First).

You can apply a for a postal vote by visiting the Electoral Commission website.