Residents reminded to vote safe in election

WITH some form of Covid restrictions expected to be in place for the spring local elections, voters are being advised how they can cast their vote safely.

On Thursday May 6, residents in Hampshire will go to the polls to have their say on who represents them.

Hampshire County Council have reminded residents who don’t want to attend polling stations in person that they can apply to place a postal vote but must do do on the Council’s website by 5pm on April 20.

If vulnerable residents would like someone they trust to place their vote – a proxy vote – the deadline to register for this is April 27.

Anyone voting in person is reminded to wear a face covering, to bring their own pen or pencil and to keep a safe distance.

The Council’s chief executive, John Coughlan said: ‘It’s important to make sure your voice is heard. However you choose to cast your vote you will be able to do so safely and securely in line with public health guidance.

A BUILDERS’ merchant has been praised for its unrelenting charity support throughout the national lockdowns.

Covers Timber and Builders Merchants has been named as Mountbatten Hampshire Hospice’s Fundraising Charity Partnership of the Year in the charity’s annual awards.

The builders’ merchant has supported the hospice for many years, with the charity caring for people with life-limiting illnesses like heart disease, Parkinson’s and motor neurone disease.

Covers’ chairman Rupert Green said: ‘It’s an honour to support the hospice and be part of the important work they do providing the community with access to high quality end-of-life care.’

Nigel Hartley, Mountbatten Hampshire Hospice’s chief executive, added: ‘Corporate supporters are vital to ensuring we can help everyone that needs our support. We’re very grateful to Covers Timber and Builders Merchants and their staff for continuing to support us.’