East Cambridgeshire District Council

Elections may be the last thing on many people's minds this summer but important forms are being delivered across East Cambridgeshire giving residents the chance to register their right to vote.

The annual canvass is even more important this year, with District and parish Council elections set to take place  in 2011.

To make the whole process as simple as possible the forms will arrive pre-printed so if all the information is correct all that is needed is to sign the form off and return it.

Alternatively voters can confirm they have no changes to make to their details by using the Internet, SMS message service or using the freephone number on the form, or use the prepaid envelope provided to return your form.

If there are changes to be made, then incorrect information should be crossed out and the right details added. If anyone is in any doubt there are instructions on the back of the form or they can contact the Electoral Services team.

If we do not receive a response from each household then a canvasser may call to obtain this information, canvassers are due in the area between 4th October to 1st November.

Joan Cox, Electoral Services Officer at East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: "Using your right to vote is not only a legal requirement it allows you to have your say on how the place you live is run. In East Cambridgeshire, next May will see elections being held for all the wards and parishes in the District. This is why if we haven't heard from you, our team of canvassers may call on you in October so we can get this important information.
 
"We have tried to make the process as easy as possible by introducing text messaging and online confirmation because we know how important this is. Also if you are likely to move before the 15 October please leave your form for the next occupants to fill in. However if you are going to move shortly after the 15th, you should still fill in the form at your current address and register with your new authority as soon as possible.

"The Electoral Roll also prevents identity fraud and is used by credit companies to check your residential status before they can offer any loans or mortgages. It is in your best interests to fill in your form but if you have any problems please contact us and we will be happy to help."

For further details about electoral registration please contact Electoral Services on 01353 665555.

ENDS

Notes for editors:

For further information contact Tony Taylorson in the Communication Team
on 01223 699285.