Councils will be reimbursed for the cost of finding alternative polling stations in the upcoming General Election.

The Government confirmed that as well as covering all 'reasonable' costs associated with the election, it will also support councils to find 'creative' ways to avoid the disruption caused by a Christmas vote.

In a letter to returning officers, Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden said: 'Venues are rightly selected by you and independently of the Government, and you are best placed to select the most appropriate locations for polling stations and counting centres. As is usually the case, the Government assures that all reasonable costs will be reimbursed.

'However, reflecting the specific circumstances of this election, the chief secretary to the Treasury and I have also agreed to reimburse the necessary costs where needed to support you in identifying alternative venues to avoid disrupting long planned and important events relating to this time of year in schools and other community spaces.'