Are you registered to vote in the Police and Crime Commissioner election?

Residents in South Gloucestershire have until the end of October to make sure they are registered to vote in the country's first Police and Crime Commissioner election.

On Thursday 15 November, polls will open in the Avon and Somerset policing area –which includes South Gloucestershire – for the chance to vote for a Police and Crime Commissioner.

This is a new role that will replace the local Police Authority. The Commissioner will produce a police and crime plan setting out local policing priorities for your area, set the annual policing budget and will appoint and oversee the Chief Constable.

The elections use a different system of voting called the supplementary voting system. You will have two votes, one for your first choice candidate and one for your second choice.

Information on your candidates will be available at www.choosemypcc.org.uk. You will also be able to order printed information about the candidates by telephone on 0800 1 070708.

Who can vote in the election? Any eligible South Gloucestershire resident over the age of 18 who is registered to vote. Poll cards will be issued to all eligible electors. Please contact electoral services on 01454 863030 if you need any help with registration or visit our website www.southglos.gov.uk/pcc

Between October 22 and November 2 the Electoral Commission will send every household in England and Wales a booklet about the elections and the supplementary voting system. If you do not receive your copy by the 2nd November please telephone the Electoral Commission on 0800 328 0280.