We do not wish to see a repeat of the widespread abuse of the electoral system as seen in May 2000

Det Ch Insp Martin Bottomley

Detective Chief Inspector Martin Bottomley said: "I have a number of officers investigating reports passed to me by a local councillor, acting on behalf of a prospective candidate.

"These may or may not disclose criminal offences.

"We are determined however, that we do not wish to see a repeat of the widespread abuse of the electoral system as seen in May 2000."

At that time similar allegations of vote rigging marred local elections in Oldham and Manchester.

And in Burnley, Lancashire, a police investigation revealed false applications for proxy votes.

Police presence

Det Ch Insp Bottomley said: "I would invite any councillors, prospective candidates or their agents to contact me at Oldham Police Station if they have any suspicions or concerns.

"We will actively investigate any allegations brought to our attention and in addition are putting certain measures in place to pre-empt any offences being committed on election day itself."

Police officers will be based at key polling stations while votes are cast on 5 May.