Don't lose your vote in 2012

Forms will go to households in Cheltenham over the coming months so that the council can compile the electoral register.

Returning officer, Andrew North said: “Registering to vote is very simple. All you have to do is update the annual canvass form with the details of everyone in your household who is eligible to vote and return it to us as soon as possible. If your details haven’t changed you can also reply by text, phone or e-mail.

“There was a lot of interest in this year’s referendum on the UK voting system and we were pleased with the increase in registration shortly before polling day. However, some people may not realise that they have to register every year.

“It is important that you complete and return the registration form so you’re able to take part in the upcoming elections.”

On the electoral registration form people can opt to have their details excluded from the edited register. This will mean the details cannot be bought by individuals and commercial organisations.

For more information, contact the electoral registration officer on 01242 264132.

Notes to editor

1. The annual canvass takes place every autumn. An annual canvass form will be sent to every property in Cheltenham. A revised electoral register will be published by 1 December 2011.

2. You can only vote if your name appears in the register of electors and you are aged 18 or over on polling day. Any eligible person over the age of 16 can register to vote but must be 18 or over on polling day.

      3. Special provisions to register also apply to members of the UK armed forces serving abroad to allow them to vote. For more information, go to http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/

4. There are two versions of the electoral register – the full and edited registers. Only certain people and organisations can have copies of the full register and can only use it for specified reasons. The edited register can be bought by anyone who asks for it and can be used for any purpose, including direct marketing.