A campaign to help prevent electoral fraud in next week's local elections has been launched by the Electoral Commission and charity Crimestoppers.

East Devon District Council is supporting the campaign, which seeks to inform the public about spotting the signs of electoral fraud and how to report it if anyone tries to steal their vote.

It is illegal to make someone vote against their will, either through intimidation, bribery, or impersonating them.

Ailsa Irvine, director of electoral administration and guidance at the Electoral Commission, said: "Whether you are voting in person at a polling station on 6 May or completing your postal vote at home, it's important that your vote is yours alone.

"No one should feel pressured to vote a certain way. While proven cases of electoral fraud are rare, it remains a serious crime and those who commit it can be sentenced to time in prison."

Mark Hallas, chief executive of the charity Crimestoppers, said: "The UK has a long tradition of maintaining a trustworthy electoral system where abuses, such as voter fraud, are thankfully rare. However, when it does happen it undermines that reputation, which is why it's crucial that anyone who has concerns or suspicions speaks up anonymously via our charity.

"Our UK Contact Centre is open 24/7 and available online via Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling freephone 0800 555 111. We never ask or take personal details and have always kept our promise of anonymity to everyone who trusts us with their information."

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