NOMINATIONS have opened for the postponed Leaderdale and Melrose by-election which is now to be held on March 11.

The contest for the Scottish Borders Council ward was originally going to take place in May last year, then October, but coronavirus restrictions scuppered those plans.

The by-election comes after the death of Kevin Drum in March last year.

Candidates can be put forward until 4pm on Monday, February 8 ­– and the election will take place the following month.

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Returning officer Rob Dickson said: “This is the first occasion during the coronavirus pandemic that voters will have gone to the polls in the Scottish Borders.

“I want to reassure our residents who are casting their ballot in person that every possible precaution will be taken by election staff to make our polling stations as safe as possible.

"This includes following guidance from the Electoral Commission and the Electoral Management Board for Scotland.

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“Residents can of course take advantage of the postal vote option if they are unable to or do not wish to attend in person. Details on how to register for a postal vote can be found on the council website.”

All voters must be registered to vote by February 23.

Polling day is March 11 between 7am and 10pm.

Polling stations will follow COVID-19 guidelines including the requirement to wear face coverings.

For more information visit the Scottish Borders Council website.