DISTRICT residents are being urged to not lose their voice on important decisions by keeping their electoral reignition details up to date.

Braintree District Council is reminding residents to update their details and register to vote in the lead up to the annual canvass.

The canvass ensures the council can keep the electoral register up to date while identifying anyone who isn't registered so that they can be encouraged to do so.

Electoral Registration Officer Andy Wright said: “It’s important that residents keep an eye out for messages from Braintree District Council, so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in the Braintree District.

"To make sure you are able to have your say at elections, simply follow the instructions from my elections team.

“If you’re not currently registered, your name will not appear in the messages we send.

"If you want to register, the easiest way is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote, or we’ll send you information explaining how to do this in the post.”

The council is also encouraging recent movers to check their details.

Research by the Electoral Commission shows recent home movers are far less likely to be registered.

Across Great Britain, 92% of people who have been at their property for more than sixteen years will be registered, compared to 36% of people who have lived at an address for less than one year.

Melanie Davidson, Head of Support and Improvement at the Electoral Commission, said: “It’s really important that everyone who is entitled to vote is able to do so.

"Making sure you provide the necessary information to your local authority when it is needed will ensure the process runs smoothly.

"This is particularly helpful in the current public health situation, as it will help avoid the need for home visits from canvassers.

“There’s lots of helpful information about registering to vote on our website electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter.”

For more information, contact elections@braintree.gov.uk.