THOUSANDS of ballot papers will hit voters' doormats this weekend as part of Hyndburn's first all-postal local election.

Instead of visiting polling stations voters can now fill in the letters and either deliver them to a number of 'drop off points' or post them back to the council in a prepaid envelope by Thursday May 1.

They will be counted by a new votometer, unveiled yesterday's outside Accrington Town Hall, which it is hoped will scan each bar coded letter judging if the paper is faked or photocopied.

The new system is being introduced in a bid to swell the number of people voting.

The council have set up a special freephone helpline number on 0800 328 3557 for anyone who needs assistance voting.

The council hopes the new system will increase voter turnout by letting people vote at a time convenient for them.