RESIDENTS in the Cotswolds will soon receive a form asking them to check and update information that appears on the electoral register for their address.

Cotswold District Council (CDC) is asking people to make sure they look out for the form and respond as soon as possible.

The form ensures CDC can keep the electoral register up to date and identify residents who are not registered so they can be encouraged to do so.

While no district-wide elections are scheduled until May 2019, there is a possibility that local by-elections could take place at any time.

People who have moved address recently are particularly encouraged to keep an eye out for the form.

Research by the independent Electoral Commission indicates that recent home movers are far less likely to be registered than those that have lived at the same address for a long time.

Nigel Adams, electoral registration officer at CDC, said: “It’s important that residents respond as soon as possible, so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in Cotswold District.

"To make sure you are able to have your say on any election that may occur, simply check the form when it arrives and respond as soon as you can.

"If you want to register, the easiest way is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote, or we’ll send you information explaining how to do this in the post."

Any residents who have questions email elections@cotswold.gov.uk or call 01285 623002.