They were expected to cast their ballots at the first advance Independence referendum poll at Wesley Methodist Church Hall today.

The advance polls, which will be held again on August 8, were set up for eligible voters who will be off the Island or incapacitated on referendum day, August 15.

Parliamentary Registrar Mrs. Marlene Christopher reminded voters that they must take their certificates of absence and valid identification to the polls.

The Chief Medical Officer will be issuing certificates to incapacitated voters this morning -- between 8.30 a.m. and noon -- at the Hamilton Health Centre on Victoria Street.

Free parking will also be available to voters outside the Wesley Hall on Church Street. Corporation of Hamilton secretary Mr. Roger Sherratt said parking in the "special area'' will be limited to 15 minutes per vehicle.

Polling hours will be from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.