To help prevent fraud all applicants are now asked to provide their national insurance number to verify their identity.

You can now apply for most types of absent votes online via: www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote and www.gov.uk/apply-proxy-vote

The maximum time a postal vote can now be held is up to three years. Proxy voters can continue to put in place a proxy arrangement for an indefinite period subject to a three yearly eligibility check and five yearly signature refresh.

Applications for postal proxy voting, some proxy voting and emergency proxy voting will still need to be applied for through a paper application.

If you are unable to apply online you can call the Electoral Services Office on 01432 260107.

For more information on how to vote, see www.herefordshire.gov.uk/elections