Any other news contributor covering local election count? The rule have been changed here making it difficult. I can only cover the count from a viewing gallery yards away from the count. Good job I have a 600mm Lens! Also new vetting regime. I was never sent a notification and when I chased I was told that registration closed last week but an “exception” would be made. I also had to provide a copy of my passport... it is easier to get into Downing Street. Given there are never more than three of us media types at the count it all seems a little extreme Also anything which restricts coverage of local democracy is a bad thing!