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Election 2015: How do I register to vote and what is the deadline?
Here's a handy guide to make sure you're ready to use your vote for the general election on May 7
Every British citizen has a right to vote in a general election, which takes place every five years.
The vote, typically held on a Thursday, will this year run on May 7 - but you will only be eligible to exercise your democratic right if you are registered to vote.
This year's deadline is April 20. If you're unsure about the process, we have all the information you need to help you cast your vote.
But as a rule, your first port of call should be the hugely informative About My Vote website http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/
Electoral register
First and foremost, the right to vote is dictated by you being on the electoral register.
This ensures you are able to vote in both general (national) and local elections, as well as any other matters of national importance deemed necessary to open up to the public.
Since the last election, however, the way in which all of us register to vote has changed.
Up to now, the head of the household has been responsible for registering everyone who lives at their address to vote.
Under the new system, anyone wishing to register to vote in England, Scotland and Wales must now register as individuals using a new secure system.
Where do I register?
By far the easiest way to register to vote in 2015 is online at http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/register-to-vote
You are still able to and entitled to submit your registration by post, however, by downloading and filling out a form - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/voter-registration-forms-paper-versions
Again, just to stress that April 20 deadline for registration.
Election day
Prior to election day (May 7 this year, remember!), you will be sent a polling card.
Your polling card will come with details of your nearest polling station, which is where you should go to vote.
These are usually schools, community buildings, council sites or any other location of community importance.
All polling stations in Bury will be open between 7am and 10pm, during which time you can attend to cast your vote in person.
Postal votes
If voting in person at your local polling station is not convenient for you, you can choose to vote by post.
Only electors who are (or are applying to be) registered individually are entitled to apply to vote by post.
Postal votes can be sent overseas, but you need to consider whether there will be enough time to receive and return your ballot paper by election day.
Anyone wishing to vote by post can do so by contacting the Elections Office and requesting an application you then need to return it to your local electoral registration office.
The result
Votes are counted overnight after the polls close at 10pm, with most results in the early hours of the following morning.
You cannot cast a vote past 10pm so make sure to get to your polling station in good time or ensure your voting arrangements are otherwise in hand.
Remember...
To recap, visit http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/
for simple, basic information on how to ensure you are registered to vote this year.
Make sure you are registered by April 20. This is crucial.
Ensure you take your polling card to the polling station with you when you go out to vote.
And remember, if you have any issues with registration, contact your local electoral office in good time.
Electoral Services, Town Hall, Knowsley Street Bury BL9 0SW
Telephone 0161 253 5252
