The Wiltshire and Swindon Police and Crime Commissioner election is just around the corner and some may wonder: what is a PCC election and why does it matter?

The PCC is responsible for overseeing the work of Wiltshire Police, holding the Chief Constable to account and commissioning key services for community safety and victim support.

After the 2021 election saw a turnout of only 16.63% across the county, the candidates are hoping to convince residents of the importance of their vote.

Without local elections to participate in this year, it is a chance for Wiltshire to have its say on an important role within the county.

When asked why people should turn up and vote, the four confirmed candidates gave the following comments.

The current PCC, Conservative Philip Wilkinson, said: “The PCC election is unique and brings democratic control of the police to a county level.

“The PCC, after consultation with residents, and on their behalf, sets the strategic direction and objectives of the force through the Police and Crime Plan and can, and should hold the Chief Constable to account for the force’s officers and staff for the cost-effective and efficient delivery of the priorities set in that plan; and if the police do not deliver to a level of professional competence that the residents have every right to expect and demand, the PCC can remove the Chief Constable.”

Meanwhile, Independent candidate Mike Rees, said: “This role should not be political.

“Policing should be influenced by the local community and not by politicians and their agendas.

“As an independent I will work for the people of Wiltshire and not for any political party.

“My record shows that I make things happen and I will let the public know how things really are with no spin. 

“Politics has decimated policing and your policing response.

“If you want to make a positive difference you need to vote on May 2 for something different, otherwise things won’t change.”

The Labour and Co-operative Party candidate, Stanka Adamcova, said: “Elections are a choice between the future and the past and these elections will be decided by a few votes!

“Your vote can help Wiltshire and Swindon to have the first-ever Labour and Co-operative Police and Crime Commissioner.

“It will be transformative for Wiltshire to have a Labour and Co-operative PCC as Labour are the government in waiting.

“After 14 years of Conservative disastrous decisions for policing commencing with axing 20,000 police officers, a vote for me is a vote for a return to effective policing.”

Liberal Democrat Alan Hagger said: "Policing affects us all - whether you have been a victim of crime or whether you just want to feel safe going about your daily life.

“The only way for you to influence what service you will get from your local police is to use your vote in the PCC elections.

“With your vote you decide which priorities the police will focus on, how visible and accessible they are, how well victims are supported, and how well the police will work with residents and other organisations to keep you and your family safe.

“Make your views known, use your vote!”

The vote will be held on Thursday, May 2, and will determine the county’s PCC for the next four-year term.

The location of the polling stations will be indicated on the poll cards and voters will require a photo ID.