European elections: Forget the politics, it's dogs at polling stations time

We are living through turbulent political times.

Brexit is dividing the country, the cabinet is in open revolt and new parties are making the system even more unpredictable.

To cap it all off, voters are casting ballots in an election which was never supposed to happen.

If you think about it too much, it might all seem a bit unnerving.

But enough of that - #dogsatpollingstations is back.

It's one of the nation's weirdest and cheeriest traditions and the European elections edition is as good as you might have hoped.

Voters have been getting snaps of their pooches outside polling stations across the North East.

Here are a selection to brighten your day:

1. Here's everyone having a great time

Dogs at polling stations - European elections 2019 (Carl Cape @CarlCape)

2. Post-voting snack

Dogs at polling stations - European elections 2019 (Helen Bridgett)

3. Strong pose

Dogs at polling stations - European elections 2019 (Phil Chambers)

4. Caught unawares

Dogs at polling stations - European elections 2019 (Leanne @leannerayner84)

5. Taking it all very seriously

Dogs at polling stations - European elections 2019 (Rick Haswell @zackary71)

6. Watching a cat

Dogs at polling stations - European elections 2019 (Katie Carnie @katiecarnie)

7. Who wouldn't vote for this guy?

Dogs at polling stations - European elections 2019 (Christine Saunders)

You can follow all our coverage of the EU elections by clicking right here .