Voters in Kent will today be choosing who they want to be their representatives in the European Parliament - even though those elected are likely to be there for a matter of months.

The election takes place against a turbulent political backdrop, with the government deadlocked over its Brexit deal.

Many voters are expected to use it as an opportunity to give existing mainstream parties such as the Conservatives and Labour a bloody nose over their handling of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.

The result could also impact the date by which Theresa May will stand aside as Conservative party leader and Prime Minister.

Candidates who are elected could be in the strange situation of being MEPs for less than six months.

If the government secures a Brexit deal by the new deadline set by the EU of October 31, they will lose their seats on that date.

The electorate will have nine parties vying for their vote.

They are the Brexit Party, Change UK, Conservatives, Greens, Labour, Liberal Democrats, Socialist Party of Great Britain, UK European Union Party and Ukip.

There will also be three Independents on the ballot paper.

Polls have suggested the new Brexit Party, set up by former Ukip leader Nigel Farage, is on course for what would be a striking victory.

In the 2014 election, Ukip emerged victorious, taking four of the 10 seats in the South East region - one more than the Conservatives. Labour, the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party each had one MEP elected.

The results are due to be announced on Sunday.

Your European Election questions answered

For more election news, click here.

Head to our politics page for expert analysis and all the latest news from your politicians and councils.