The May 1 local council elections are rapidly approaching and I take the opportunity to remind readers that April 16 is the deadline to get their names on the electoral register, if they have not already done so.
If you are not on the register, you won't be able to vote.
Also, if you've moved house this year and have not re-registered, you need to do so by April 16.
This is also the deadline to apply for a postal vote or proxy vote if you can't get to the polling station on Thursday May 1. Anyone aged 18 and over can register to vote if they are a British, Irish, qualifying Commonwealth or Euro-pean Union citizen.
To register, contact your local electoral registration office, or visit www.about myvote.co.uk
Karen Quaintmere
Head of English Regions
Electoral Commission
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