Rushmoor residents urged to ensure they are ready to vote

PEOPLE in Aldershot and Farnborough are being reminded to make sure they are registered to vote in good time for the local elections.

On Thursday May 2, residents will have the opportunity to vote for one Rushmoor borough councillor in their local area and to also choose a Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire.

The borough council published its notice of election last month and potential candidates now have until 4pm on Friday to submit their nominations. One seat in each of Rushmoor’s 13 ward areas will be up for election.

Jill Shuttleworth, corporate manager – democracy, at Rushmoor said: “It’s always a very busy time for the council as we get ready for the elections, and we want to encourage as many people as possible to use their vote on May 2.

“With the potential for a general election to be called this year, it is particularly important for people to check that their registration details are up to date and they have the identification they need in order to vote at a polling station, and the sooner they can do this the better.”

Like last year, people will need to show ID to vote at a polling station. There are many types of photo ID that can be used such as a passport, driver’s licence, military identity card, blue badge or a disabled or older person’s bus pass (as well as many others). Further information about the types of photo ID that can be used can be found on the council’s website at www.rushmoor.gov.uk/voterid

Anyone who does not have the right identification has until Wednesday April 24 to apply for a voter authority certificate (VAC). A VAC from last year, when the changes were first introduced, will still be valid.

In the run-up to the elections there are some key deadline dates that residents also need to be aware of. Anyone who is not already registered to vote will need to do so by Tuesday April 16, and can also let the borough council know about any changes in their personal information by going to www. rushmoor.gov.uk/registertovote

For residents who want to apply for a postal vote or make changes to an existing postal or proxy vote, the deadline is 5pm on Wednesday April 17.

Further information about the upcoming elections and details about registering to vote, applying for a postal or proxy vote, key dates and more are available at www. rushmoor.gov.uk/elections

Residents can also get in touch with the elections team by calling 01252 398 824.