Get clued up ahead of election on May 5

There are less than four weeks left until people go to the polls, and voters are being urged to get ready for the upcoming council elections.

Voters should make sure they know where they need to go to cast their vote by checking their poll card in advance.

Staff will be on hand to assist if you need any help at the polling place.

Large print sample ballot papers and tactile voting devices will also be available to help those who are blind or partially sighted to vote.

Lorraine McMillan, returning officer for East Renfrewshire Council, said:“Make sure you check the information on your poll card, as your polling place might have changed since you last voted.

“You do not need your poll card to vote, but we encourage you to bring it with you to make the process quicker and more efficient.

“Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday, May 5.

“Voters who have opted to vote by post must return their postal ballot pack by 10pm. They can hand it in at their polling place if they don’t have time to return it by post.”

Andy O’Neill, head of the

Electoral Commission in Scotland, added:“At this election you number your candidates in order of choice, using a 1 for your first choice, a 2 for your second choice, a 3 for your third and so on.

“You can number as many or as few candidates as you choose.

“If you need any information on how to fill in your ballot paper then look out for the voter information leaflet we are sending to all households in Scotland or visit electoralcommission.org.uk/ voter”

Those voting in person on May 5 will see some public health measures in place at polling places, similar to those in place in other indoor venues.

East Renfrewshire Council says it will be following public health guidance to make sure polling places are safe places to vote.