High security presence in Kirkuk

MEE’s Tom Westcott is in Kirkuk, where security is also tight as Iraqi army helicopters carry out low-flying sorties since polling started this morning.

Iraqi security forces have been on high alert countrywide in the run-up to the elections - but with its recent history of unrest, the fiercely contested city of Kirkuk is particularly vulnerable, and security there is a priority.

Roads have been closed to traffic around polling stations in the city, with a range of security forces deployed.