Residents in Tendring are being encouraged to apply for a postal vote now to make sure they can have their say in next May’s elections - unless they want to visit their designated polling station.

Voting by post is a simple and convenient way to take part in elections from home.

Your ballot paper will be sent to you in advance, and you can return it in the pre-paid envelope provided.

Ian Davidson, Electoral Registration Officer for Tendring, said: “Applying for a postal vote is quick and easy, and it means you can vote from the comfort of your own home.

“If you want to vote by post in the elections on May 7, now is a great time to apply.

“Some existing postal voters will also need to renew their arrangements under new rules, so if you’ve received a letter from us, please take action to keep your postal vote in place.”

Postal vote arrangements now last for a maximum of three years; but you can apply at any time. Applying now means it gets sorted now well ahead of deadlines.

Letters have been sent out to those needing to re-apply.

Applications for a postal vote can be made online through the national portal using your National Insurance number and a signature image.

Paper forms are also available for those who prefer to apply by post.

If you would like to apply to vote by post, go to https://www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote or contact Tendring District Council’s Electoral Services on 01255 686566 or via email at elections@tendringdc.gov.uk.

For more information on applying to vote by post or proxy, go to https://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/content/apply-to-vote-by-post-or-proxy.