WITH general and local elections just over a month away a council is urging residents to make sure that they are ready to cast their votes.

As polling cards are sent to the 91,000 registered voters in the district this week, the Stroud District Council is keen to ensure that anyone entitled to vote does not miss out.

Stroud District Council chief executive and (acting) returning officer for the elections David Hagg said:

"With a high-profile general election taking place this year, I would urge people to register sooner rather than later as we are always inundated with last minute requests.

"You can't vote if you're not registered, and contrary to what some people believe, you won't be automatically registered if you pay council tax.

"We urge all residents to ensure they are on the electoral roll as soon as possible in order to avoid any disappointment."

The deadline for registering to vote is Monday, April 20. Residents can register easily online at www.gov.uk/registertovote provided they know their national insurance number. Alternatively they can call 01453 754886 to request a form.

The deadline for postal vote applications, or to amend a postal vote, is 5pm on Tuesday, April 21. Anyone wanting someone place a vote on their behalf will need to apply by 5pm on Tuesday, April 28.

Mr Hagg continued: "If you have just moved into the district or moved house within the district, please do remember to register. It is not too late."

As well as the parliamentary election, 18 district council seats and seats in some parish and town councils will also be contested.

Anyone wishing to stand in the elections must ensure that their completed nominations are received by the (acting) returning officer by 4pm on Thursday, April 9. The list of candidates standing will be published as soon as possible after this deadline on the same day.

Anyone who is unsure if they are registered to vote should call the elections team on 01453 754886 or email elections@stroud.gov.uk