Published on 17th March 2015

A national television advertising campaign is launched to encourage voter registration ahead of the General Election.

As a national television advertising campaign is launched to encourage voter registration ahead of the General Election, Cheltenham Borough Council is encouraging local people to visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

On 7 May 2015 voters will go to the polls to elect a Member of Parliament for Cheltenham.

The Electoral Commission this week launched its national voter registration campaign to remind people to register by 20 April 2015. The television advert can be seen here.

Kim Smith, election and registration manager said: "Time is now running short to make sure you can take part in the elections, so I’d encourage everyone in Cheltenham to take action now if they aren’t registered to vote. Our message is simple: you can’t vote, if you aren’t registered by 20 April.  It’s easy to do and only takes a few minutes online. If you’re not sure, please double check."

Residents can register to vote online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. Residents can check whether they’re registered to vote by calling 01242 264132.

Recent research conducted by YouGov for the Electoral Commission found that:

  • 21% of people who rent privately think they’re automatically registered to vote if they pay council tax
  • 40% of those surveyed think it is not possible to register to vote online in England, Scotland and Wales.

Press enquiries: Please contact Katie Sandey, communications and web team leader, on 01242 775037 or [email protected]