The referendum is on the voting system used for elections to the UK Parliament. The question being put to voters on 5th May is:

“At present, the UK uses the ‘first past the post’ system to elect MP’s to the House of Commons. Should the ‘alternative vote’ system be used instead?”

With several bank holidays coming up, residents who are going to be away on 5th May can also apply to vote by post or by proxy.

Returning Officer, Philip Marshall said: “Now is the time to make sure you are registered to vote before the deadline on Thursday, 14th April and to apply for a postal or proxy vote. You can call 01623457321 or print off the forms from www.aboutmyvote.co.uk

Electoral Commission spokesperson Chris Hinde said: “People don’t realise they can have their say in different ways, including by post or by asking someone you trust (a ‘proxy’) to cast your vote for you. So if you are going to be away on Thursday, 5th May, take a few minutes now to make sure your voice will still be heard.