Voter registration reminder

VOTERS in Shetland are being urged to ensure they are registered to vote ahead of polling day for SIC elections on Thursday 4 May.

Poll cards have been arriving through letterboxes in the islands over recent days and voters are reminded that, if they do not receive one, they need to register by the deadline of Monday 17 April or they won’t be able to cast their vote.

Orkney and Shetland deputy electoral registration officer Ian Leslie said: “Time is running out to make sure you can take part in the council elections this May and I’d encourage everyone in Shetland to take action now if they’re not already registered to vote.

“The register of electors now includes 16 and 17 year olds and this is the first time that they are eligible to vote in the council election in Shetland.

“It’s quick and easy to register at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote but after the deadline of 17 April, it will be too late.”

Poll cards will give information on applying for postal and proxy votes if electors are unable to attend their local polling station on 4 May. Although the final date for making these applications is still some time away, electors are encouraged to ensure they have these arrangements in place as soon as possible.

• For more guidance on registering for the election or applying for absent votes, please contact the Electoral Registration Office at 20 Commercial Road, Lerwick, telephone (01595) 745700 or email ero@shetland.gov.uk. Information for voters is also available on the Electoral Commission website.