A campaign to prevent electoral fraud ahead of May’s local elections has been backed by East Devon District Council (EDDC).

Local elections will be held on May 6 for Devon County Council, the Police and Crime Commission, district and parish elections.

In any election in the UK, a person’s vote belongs to them alone. It is illegal for anyone to influence a person to vote against their will.

The Your vote is yours alone campaign, launched by the Electoral Commission and Crimestoppers, aims to raise awareness of what constitutes unacceptable pressure or influence on whether or how someone casts their vote.

Mark Williams, returning officer at East Devon, said: “Unfortunately, on rare occasions, some people may try to manipulate our electoral system and commit electoral fraud.

“Many people may not be aware that their actions constitute a crime. Your vote is yours alone, and we are supporting this campaign so that voters know what to do if they suspect they are a victim of electoral fraud.”