Derbyshire Conservatives are urging Chesterfield residents to take part in a referendum to send out a clear message about whether they want to become part of the Sheffield City Region and be run by a South Yorkshire Mayor.

The referendum is being staged by the Conservative-run Derbyshire County Council which is strongly opposed to Sheffield City Region Combined Authority's proposed expansion into Chesterfield - which would mean powers for key services in the town being handed to a South Yorkshire Mayor.

More than 5000 people said "No" to the plans in an online poll last year.

Following the local elections in May, the Conservatives are now delivering on their commitment to hold an official vote to give residents the chance to have their say by answering a simple "yes" or "no" to show whether they support the plans.

Everyone who is over 18, living in Chesterfield and on the electoral roll will receive an official ballot paper delivered to their home address from 21 June 2017.

Leader of Derbyshire County Council Councillor Barry Lewis said: "It's time to put this issue to bed once and for all.

"This is a massive decision for the future of Chesterfield and the rest of Derbyshire and many people have already said they do not want the borough to join Sheffield.

"We would rather not have to spend tax-payers' money on holding a referendum but local people deserve the chance to have their say in an officially recognised way.

"Voting is easy. It's a simple yes or no question. So please look out for your ballot paper dropping onto your door mat, fill it in and post it back to us straight away. Or you can vote by text, online or by phone if you prefer. Full details will be included with your ballot paper.

"We know people have already expressed their objections to these plans in various ways. But this will be the strongest indication of local feeling yet. That's why we're urging everyone to take part - even if you've already made your voice heard this is your chance to make your vote count."

The referendum will be conducted and verified by Electoral Reform Services, an independent and impartial organisation, on behalf of the county council.

Results from advisory referendums are not binding and the final decision whether to allow Chesterfield to join Sheffield City Region will rest with the Secretary of State. But the results will be sent to the Government, Sheffield City Region and Chesterfield Borough Council as clear evidence of what local people want for their future.

People living outside Chesterfield, as well as Chesterfield residents, will be able to have their say about the plans when Sheffield City Region carries out its second public consultation due to launch in July.

Pictured: Chesterfield Conservatives running a "straw poll" from their local market stall.