The AEA's award scheme recognises members who have made valuable contributions. By overseeing an historic recall petition, as well as four other elections, Peterborough City Council took the prize for "dedication, outstanding effort and commitment".

Last year the team administered the first successful Parliamentary Recall petition in England, following the conviction of former Peterborough MP Fiona Onasanya, which resulted in a by-election in June.

The recall petition was run in tandem with the city council elections, with the count taking place the day after the recall petition result was confirmed. There were also elections for the European parliament, and then the snap UK parliamentary election in December, called with less than two months notice.

In a letter to the team, the AEA said: “Not only did the team help to shape future arrangements for recall petitions, they entered each challenge with enthusiasm and worked tirelessly to ensure all events were successful.”

Gillian Beasley, chief executive of Peterborough City Council, said: “We are extremely proud of the team’s efforts and this award is testament to their hard work and dedication.

“It’s fair to say that 2019 was a very challenging year. We were the first authority in the country to run a recall petition and its successful handling has made us a positive example for other authorities to follow in future.

“All of last year's elections were organised smoothly and professionally, demonstrating the team's total commitment to the cause.”