Voters in the Clacton constituency are being asked to use this week’s Find it FrIDay reminder to check they have the photo ID they need before heading to the polling station.

Anyone voting in person at the UK parliamentary by-election on Thursday, 13 August, must bring an accepted form of identification before they can be issued with a ballot paper.

Find it FrIDay, taking place this Friday (31 July), is a simple prompt for residents to dig out their ID now, check it is one of the forms that will be accepted, and make sure it still looks like them.

Those without an accepted form of photo ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate (VAC), with applications open until 5pm on Wednesday, 5 August.

A total of 34 candidates are standing in the by-election, which is believed to be a record for a parliamentary election. The previous record is understood to have been 26 candidates, set at the Haltemprice and Howden by-election in July 2008.

Ian Davidson, Acting Returning Officer, said checking now would help voters avoid problems on polling day.

“This is a historic by-election for Clacton, with what is believed to be a record number of candidates standing in a parliamentary election, so we know there will be a lot of interest locally and beyond,” he said.

“With polling day approaching, we want every eligible voter who plans to vote in person to feel confident they have what they need before they arrive at the polling station.

“Find it FrIDay is a useful reminder to take a few minutes to check your passport, driving licence, bus pass or other accepted ID, and to make sure it is still a good likeness.

“If you do not have suitable photo ID, please do not leave it until the last minute — the free Voter Authority Certificate is there to help people take part, but the deadline to apply is 5pm on Wednesday, 5 August.

“A quick check now can make polling day much smoother, helping residents receive their ballot paper without unnecessary delay.”

Accepted forms of ID include a UK passport or driving licence, a Blue Badge, an older or disabled person’s bus pass, a PASS accredited proof of age card, or a Defence Identity Card.

A full list of approved IDs is available at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/services/elections-and-voting.

Applications for a Voter Authority Certificate can be completed online. Paper forms are available from the Town Hall in Clacton on Sea, or can be requested by calling 01255 686575.

Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday, 13 August.

‍Media advisory:

Media wishing to apply for accreditation to cover the count should fill in this form by 8am on Monday, 3 August. Please note this deadline is earlier than previously advised.

Application does not guarantee entry, as we will need to manage a safe and secure election count. It would also be useful to indicate your interest by emailing communications@tendringdc.gov.uk.