How to vote in Thursday’s local elections

The Scottish council elections will be run using a proportional system, called the single transferable vote system. This means you use numbers to mark your choice of candidates, instead of the usual X.

At the polling station, you will be given a ballot paper which will list all the candidates standing to be councillors in your ward.

You will be asked to number the candidates in order of your choice using 1, 2, 3 and so on. You can make as many or as few choices as you wish, but you don’t have to number every candidate.

Put the number 1 in the voting box next to your first choice, number 2 in the box next to your second choice and so on.

As long as you number at least one candidate, your vote will be counted. If you make a mistake on your ballot paper, you can ask for a new one.

Returning officer Gavin Whitefield said: “By now you will have received your polling card telling you where to go to vote in the council elections on May 3.

“It’s important that as many people as possible take the time to vote. North Lanarkshire Council delivers a wide range of important local services, and these elections give you your say on who should represent you and your community on the council.

“So use your vote on May 3 and make your voice heard.”

Log on to the information website here or head over to the Electoral Commission website here