Helensburgh and Lomond's voters have just a few days left to apply for a free photo identification certificate for the upcoming general election,

Advice Direct Scotland, Scotland’s national advice agency, is urging the public to ensure their documents are in order as the deadline looms.

For the first time at a UK general election, every individual voting at a polling station must show photo identification, such as a passport or a driving licence.

Other acceptable forms include those bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram (a PASS card), Young Scot cards, and travel passes such as the Scottish National Entitlement Card issued to those under 22 and over 60 for free bus rides, can also be used on July 4.

An exhaustive list of the 22 valid forms of ID is accessible on the UK Government and Electoral Commission websites.

Only a single form of photo ID is needed, but it must be the original, not a photocopy.

The name on the photo ID needs to be the same as the name used to register to vote.

If the name doesn't match, a document to prove a name change, like a marriage certificate, can be provided.

Those registered to vote without proper ID or who no longer look like their photo can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.

This can be done through the UK Government website, or by printing off forms, filling them in, and sending them to a local Electoral Registration Office.

It must be submitted by 5pm on Wednesday, June 26.

Andrew Bartlett, chief executive of Advice Direct Scotland, said: “With the general election entering the final stages, it is vital everyone who is registered to vote knows how to cast their ballot on July 4.

“Voters need to show photo ID before being given a ballot paper.

“Those who don’t have an accepted form of ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.

“There will also be some first-time voters, particularly among our young people, who may be unsure what to do.

“Every single vote counts, so make sure you take action now to exercise your right to vote.”