More than 700 candidates will be fighting for council seats at unitary, town and parish council level today.

Polling stations across the county open at 7am and will remain open until 10pm as the county casts its votes.

For some, because of changes to ward boundaries, it may mean having to vote in a different place than in previous elections. Guidance is available for those who are unsure.

This election will be the first time that the 82 seats on the new Dorset Council will be contested.

As well as the election for the new Dorset Council, today also sees town council elections in Bridport and Lyme Regis.

Bridport is divided into two wards, North and South, and each ward is represented by nine councillors.

In Bridport North, 17 candidates are fighting for nine seats, while in Bridport South there are 18 candidates. 

In Lyme Regis, 16 candidates have been put forward for 14 available seats.

For a list of all Dorset Council candidates, click here. 

For a list of both Bridport and Lyme Regis town council candidates, click here. 

To find your polling station, click here.