THE list of candidates standing in the police and crime commissioner (PCC) election for Avon and Somerset Police has been confirmed.

It includes Benet Allen of the Liberal Democrats, Katy Grant of the Green Party, Clare Moody of the Labour and Co-operative Party and Mark Shelford of the Conservative Party.

On May 2, voters across Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Bath & North East Somerset and North Somerset will cast their votes.

These areas form the Avon and Somerset Police area, whose police operations are overseen by the PCC.

The PCC is tasked with ensuring the local police force constructs its operations according to the priorities of the area’s residents.

Voters can view the full list of candidates and their individual statements from 9am on April 10, at www.choosemypcc.org.uk.

Alternatively, residents can call 0300 131 1323 to have a booklet sent to them.

In order to participate in the election, residents must be registered on the electoral roll at their current address.

Residents not yet registered must do so by midnight on Tuesday, April 16.

This can be managed online at gov.uk/register-to-vote and queries can be directed to the Somerset elections office on 0300 123 2224.

Regardless of how they choose to vote — in person, or by post or proxy — voters must meet respective deadlines.

Postal ballot applications must be turned in by 5pm on Wednesday, April 17, whilst proxy votes must be registered by 5pm on Wednesday, April 24.

Residents wishing to vote in person without an accepted photo ID need to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate ahead of the 5pm deadline on April 24.

Those with questions about obtaining a Voter Authority Certificate can contact 0300 123 2224 or reach out via email to elections@somerset.gov.uk.

Emphasising the weight of the upcoming election, Will Godfrey, police area returning officer for Avon and Somerset Police, said: "This is an important election for our area, so please make sure you’re registered to vote in time for the deadline.

"You can vote either at a polling station, by post or by proxy.

"If you wish to vote in person, please remember you will have to take accepted photo ID with you."

Additional information about the election can be found at www.avonpccelection.org.uk.