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17/03/2011 - Don't get cross - get registered to vote
Residents in Allerdale are being encouraged to make sure they are registered to vote in the local elections and the referendum on the alternative voting method on 5 May 2011.
Allerdale Borough Council has produced an online information video highlighting some of the common misconceptions which mean that some people may not be registered to vote even though they think they are.
Councillor Chris Garrard, Allerdale Borough Council’s Executive member with responsibility for Democratic Services, said: “Many people believe that they can vote just because they pay their council tax or they filled in an electoral registration form years ago. But if they haven’t updated and returned the reminder forms which they received last year, then when they turn up on polling day they may sadly have to be turned away.
“Even those people who are on the electoral register may miss out if they decide to vote by post or get someone else to vote for them as they are out of the area on polling day. It’s one thing being registered for a normal vote but they must also apply for a postal or proxy vote to make sure it’s signed, sealed and delivered in time for the election.
“In addition, anyone who has changed their name – such as through marriage – or has moved house will need to let the Council know about their change of name or address, or else they won’t be able to stand up and be counted on election day.
“It’s easy to get registered to vote - simply get in touch with Allerdale Borough Council’s Elections team. They will be able to check if you are fully registered to vote and they can offer advice to guide you through the registration process if you’re not.”
The video, entitled “Don't get cross - get registered to vote”, can be seen on the internet at Allerdale Borough Council's website and YouTube channel or by searching for Allerdale Borough Council’s Facebook page.
For more information, call Allerdale Borough Council’s Elections team on 01900 702550, email elections@allerdale.gov.uk or visit the Council's elections page.
ENDS
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