Torbay residents are being urged to ensure they have the right to vote in next year’s elections.

Your local Electoral Registration Office is encouraging residents to check that they are registered to vote ahead of the biggest elections to take place in Torbay since 1979.

Letters have recently been sent to all properties in Torbay with the details of those on the register of electors at the property. Residents are being urged to check the details as soon as possible to ensure that they are registered to vote at the elections on 7 May 2015.

As well as the UK wide Parliamentary General election, elections are taking place for the elected mayor of Torbay, Torbay Council and Brixham Town Council.

Torbay Council’s Acting Returning Officer, Caroline Taylor, said:“It is important that residents check the details of the letter as soon as possible so that anyone who is eligible to vote at the elections in May has the opportunity to register.

“The way we register to vote changed in 2014 and now requires all electors applying to register to have their personal details verified against records held by the Department of Work and Pensions. We want residents to act now and not leave it until the last minute in case their details do not match.

“If the details are correct then you do not need to do anything else. If there are people missing or there are people no longer living at the property then you need to follow the instructions on the letter”

Anyone who needs help completing the letter or who has not received the letter should contact the Electoral Registration helpline on 01803 208008 or email electoral.registration@torbay.gov.uk.