THE OFFICE of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) has issued a reminder for residents in Berkshire about the deadline for registration in the upcoming election.
Elections are taking place in May to select the PCC, who oversees the police budget, appoints chief constables in local forces, and works to engage with the public and other organisations.
Candidates are elected every 4 years to represent public interests in policing, put forward to represent political parties.
This year’s candidates include the incumbent Matthew Barber, for the Conservative and Unionist Party; Tim Starkey, Labour and Co-Operative party; Tim Bearder, Liberal Democrats; Russel Douglas Fowler, independent; and Ben Holder-Crowther, More Police Officers for Thames Valley.
Those eligible and registered to vote will be able to vote in person on Thursday, May 2, alongside the concurrent local elections.
They can also vote by post, with postal voting forms due to be sent out soon.
Nigel Lynn, police area returning officer and chief executive of West Berkshire Council, said: “This election is your opportunity to influence how your police service works.
“The Police and Crime Commissioner’s job is to make sure that crime in our area is tackled effectively and according to our local priorities.
“They’re elected by you, to be your voice and to hold the police force to account.
“The deadline to register to vote is almost here, so please take time to find out more about the PCC candidates so that you can have your say in who takes on this important role.”
The deadline for registration is 11.59pm on Tuesday, April 16, available via: gov.uk/register-to-vote
More information about each of the candidates is available via whocanivotefor.co.uk/elections
Details about all upcoming elections in your area are available via: electoralcommission.org.uk/polling-stations/
