Voters taking to the polls in a village in Gwynedd today have been told to expect some changes due to the pandemic.

While ballot boxes and polling staff will be in place as usual for the county council election in Llanrug, the ongoing coronavirus restrictions means it will be like no other witnessed in modern times. It will also offer an insight into what voters elsewhere can expect at the elections in May.

Voters have been asked to bring their own pencils if possible, and adhere to the one way system in place.

But in what will also be seen as a “dress rehearsal” for the nationwide Senedd and Police and Crime Commissioner elections on 6 May, voters will also notice other changes as part of the efforts to make the democratic process as Covid-secure as possible.

“Those who will be working at the polling station and the counts have received guidance about their roles to ensure that they are aware of all the necessary measures to help keep themselves and voters safe,” Raymond Harvey from the Gwynedd Elections Service said.

“In accordance with guidance from the Electoral Commission, safety messaging will be displayed as voters enter the polling station to remind them of the need to maintain social distancing and to wear a face covering in the building.

“Staff will be provided with relevant PPE, and voters (with the exception of those who are not legally required) who visit the polling station will of course be required to wear a face covering to enter.

“Hand sanitiser will be in place at the entrance and voters will be urged to make use as they enter the building, with staff also encouraged to use hand sanitiser regularly throughout the day.

“As has become customary over recent months, a screen will also be in place to help protect polling station staff on the day. Voters are also urged to bring their own pencils or biro.

“Regular cleaning throughout the day of touchpoints such as doors, polling booths will be carried out.

“A one-way system will be in place in the polling station to help members of the public maintain a safe social distance, and the numbers of people entering the building at any one time will be monitored to ensure the safety of voters and staff.

“Similarly, measures have been put in place to ensure the arrangements at the count follow Electoral Commission guidance.”

The polling station at Y Sefydliad Coffa, Llanrug, opened at 7am this morning, and close at 10pm tonight.

The four candidates are Martin Bristow (Independent), Beca Brown (Plaid Cymru), Calum Davies (Liberal Democrat) and Richie Green (Independent).

A result is expected late tonight.