VOTERS in rural Dorset goes the polls today in what could be the last elections to the county council.

Residents in Christchurch, East Dorset, North Dorset, South Dorset and West Dorset are eligible to cast their ballot.

See the candidates across Christchurch, Purbeck, North Dorset and East Dorset 

Under plans to reshape local councils, Dorset County Council could be abolished and re-emerge as part of a single tier, all purpose authority across the county, excluding the conurbation.

A decision on the 'Future Dorset' proposal is expected from the government after the general election.

Polling stations are open from 7am-10pm.

The council is Conservative-controlled and 45 seats are up for grabs.

There are no elections in Bournemouth and Poole.

For full results and reaction, see bournemouthecho.co.uk from 10pm and Saturday's Daily Echo.