VOTERS also took to the polls yesterday to vote for the next Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).

Five candidates ran for the position that is currently held by Conservative Katy Bourne.

The role, which was first created in November 2012 under the Conservative and Lib Dem coalition, aims to address the perceived out of touch nature and lack of accountability of police authorities.

At the time the Home Office described PCCs as “the most significant democratic reform of policing in our lifetime”.

Elections have been held every four years since 2012 until last year when coronavirus restrictions meant they could not go ahead.

The Argus: Katy Bourne was the last person to hold the position Katy Bourne was the last person to hold the position

However, it is expected that the next elections, following this year, will take place in 2024 to realign with the original four-year gap.

Candidates running for the Sussex PPC included Katy Bourne (Conservatives), Jamie Bennett (Liberal Democrats), Kahina Bouhassane (Green Party), Paul Richards (Labour) and Roy Williams (Independent).

Speaking ahead of the election, Katy Bourne said: "Having served as Sussex police and crime commissioner since 2012, I have the experience and proven track record to continue making a difference to policing our county.

"As PCC, I have robustly held the police to account on behalf of residents, successfully supported victims of crime and invested heavily in frontline policing."

The result is expected to be declared on Monday, May 10.