A council has issued a warning to voters, ahead of the May elections.

Bosses at Pendle Council are advising individuals on how to keep their postal votes safe after they received several reports of alleged electoral fraud.

Corporate Director and Returning Officer, Philip Mousdale said the impact of electoral fraud on voters can be significant.

He said: "“It can take away your right to vote as you want – whether through intimidation, bribery or by impersonating someone and casting your vote.

"We’ve had reports that people are knocking on doors and telling voters that they’re from Pendle Council. They’re requesting their postal vote ballot papers stating that there’s something wrong with them.

"Please do not hand over your ballot papers - there is nothing wrong with them. Please complete them yourself and post them back to us as soon as possible.

"As part of the Voter ID pilot, Pendle Council staff are hand delivering postal vote packs over the coming days. They will wear ID badges and will not be taking away any ballot papers."

Anyone who requested a postal vote for this year’s borough, town and parish council elections on May 2 should receive it by 23 April.

And the Council is keen to remind postal voters that voting is something you do yourself and in secret and it should not be shared with others, even members of your family.

Mr Mousdale added: "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.

"Election fraud is a serious offence and we already have anti-fraud measures in place in Pendle.

"Candidates and agents from all political parties in Pendle have signed a code agreeing to certain standards of practice around the elections.

"If anyone tries to help you against your will, or forces you to give them your postal vote, you must tell us by calling 01282 661919 or report it anonymously to Crimestoppers.

"You can do this by calling 0800 555 111 or by completing an online form – www.crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information"