Are the UK local elections happening in my area and how can I vote?

Voters across 23 local authorities in England, including key regions like Buckinghamshire and Cornwall, are casting their ballots today for 1,641 council seats and various mayoral positions. Results will begin trickling in starting late tonight, with significant outcomes expected for mayoral elections in places like North Tyneside and Greater Lincolnshire, as well as a parliamentary by-election in Runcorn and Helsby. The elections present an opportunity for citizens to express their views on pressing national issues, including the cost of living crisis and recent political scandals.