Pencil rumour causes panic in polling stations across Lancashire

Voters across Lancashire are reportedly taking their own pens to the polling stations, amid fears the cross on the ballot paper could be scrubbed out.

Rumours have caused panic that votes cast using the pencils provided could be rubbed out.

But council bosses have moved to reassure voters, saying the entire process is “completely and utterly secure”.

A spokesman said: “The voting and electoral process is absolutely sacrosanct.

“It is fundamental to democracy and the principals of freedom of speech and the right to vote.

“The whole process is completely and utterly secure and independently validated.”