HALTON residents are advised to make sure they don’t miss out on voting in the forthcoming General Election.

This year, the way you register to vote has changed.

Everyone over 16 is now responsible for registering themselves.

Halton Cllr Mike Wharton, board member for resources, said: "I often hear people saying that they are not interested in politics, and that they disagree with politicians.

“But if you don’t register and don’t vote you won’t be able to have your say and won’t be able to change things.

"Politics affects everything around us, including roads and bin collections, education, licensing, housing and much, much more.

“You may think you don’t want to vote now, but if an issue comes up that you want to have your say on, if you’re on the register you’ll have the chance to vote on it."

Halton Council is writing to every household in the borough with details of who is currently registered and what action, if any, is needed.

Christine Lawley, divisional Manager for electoral services, said: “If all the information is correct in the letter we send, you do not need to do anything.

“But if someone is not included, or the information is incorrect you will need to apply to register.”

Voters can register details online at gov.uk/register-to-vote or by calling 0303 333 4300.

To vote in this May’s local and general elections, you need to have registered by April 20.