Plans to de-politicise Alton Town Council are going ahead following a decision to immediately adopt new non-party political standing orders taken at its meeting on February 1.

The council reminded those thinking about standing for election in May that it will be holding informal drop-in information events at Goldfinch Books in Alton High Street on February 28 from 5.30pm to 7pm, Alton Town Hall on March 9 from 5pm to 6.30pm, and at the town hall on March 15 from 11am to 1pm.

The council will also prepare a guide and give answers to frequently asked questions about the election process and becoming a candidate.