Overview
- The #DogsAtPollingStations hashtag, which surged on X on Thursday, showcased voters’ pets outside polling places across the UK.
- Polling stations opened for local elections in Wales, Scotland and much of England, including the Senedd vote in Wales.
- National outlets posted photo galleries featuring dogs at well‑known spots in Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, Whitley Bay and St Davids.
- Broadcasters leaned on these images because most dogs cannot enter polling rooms and photography inside is illegal, with penalties that can reach £5,000 or six months in prison.
- Polling commentary set expectations for results, with Lord Robert Hayward forecasting about 1,850 Labour council‑seat losses in England.