Polls open in Clacton by-election
Voters will choose between 34 candidates - the most to stand in any British parliamentary election.
On Thursday, voters in Clacton will head to polling stations to elect a new MP. The process begins at 07:00 BST. The constituency of Clacton boasts a large electorate of 79,785 registered voters. This is the highest number of candidates ever to stand in a British election, with 34 candidates competing for the seat.
The election will be held across 51 polling stations, covering Clacton and nearby towns such as Jaywick, Frinton, and Walton-on-the-Naze. The area also includes rural villages like St Osyth, Weeley, and Great Bentley.
To vote, voters must present a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport. The ballot paper for Clacton will be the longest in British electoral history, stretching 90cm (about 3 feet) in length.
A total of 12 political parties and 20 independents are fielding candidates. Polling stations will remain open until 22:00, with the counting process taking place overnight.
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