A major deadline for the government's new electoral photo identification policy comes to a head today.

The left have accused it of disenfranchising voters, but we are about to see if that comes true.

Residents without acceptable photo identification have until 5pm TODAY (Tuesday, April 25) to apply for free voter ID if they want to vote in next month's elections.

All 82 seats on Cheshire East Council are up for grabs and there are also elections for town and parish councils across the borough.

But, for the first time, residents can only vote at polling stations if they have photo ID.

If you don't have an accepted type of photo ID you can apply for the free voter ID before this evening's 5pm deadline.

This can be done on the government website, or by applying for and submitting a paper form to Cheshire East Council.

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Those that have an accepted form of ID already do not need to apply. Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA drivers' licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person's bus pass. Voters can use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

To find out which ID you can use in the polling station, visit the Electoral Commission website.

The ID must be the original version and not a scan, image or photocopy.

You cannot use a picture of the document on your phone, it must be the original document.

Ailsa Irvine, director of electoral administration and guidance at the , said: "Voters will be required to show photo ID at polling stations at the May elections. The availability of free ID helps ensure elections remain accessible to all eligible voters.

"For those who don't currently have the ID they need, it's crucial they apply before the deadline so that they can take part. That date is fast approaching so don't delay."

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Dr Lorraine O'Donnell, returning officer at Cheshire East Council, said: "As the deadline to apply for free ID looms, it is important that Cheshire East's voters are sure they're election ready. If you need any help with applying for free ID, a proxy vote, or want to request an application form, you can contact our electoral services team on 0300 123 5016."

The deadline to apply for a proxy vote is also 5pm today (April 25).

Further information about voter ID is available on the Cheshire East Council website here.

Lorraine O'Donnell, chief executive of Cheshire East Council.

Thursday May 4 will see Macclesfield voters go to the polls to vote for both Macclesfield Town Council and Cheshire East Council.

Click the red links in the sentence above to find out about the candidates.

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