WYRE Forest district residents are being urged to make sure they are on the Electoral Register for the upcoming local government elections on Thursday, May 1.

Anyone not registered by Wednesday, April 16 will not be able to vote on May 1. All eligible voters need to ensure they have returned their registration forms to the Electoral Registration Officer, Wyre Forest District Council, Civic Centre, Stourport, DY13 8UJ.

Registration forms are downloadable from the council's website, www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk or by contacting the council directly. Registering is particularly important for anyone who has recently moved home.

Anyone not sure if they are registered to vote should call the electoral services team at Wyre Forest District Council on 01562 732728/94, who will be able to check.

People cannot vote if they are not registered. Contrary to popular belief, people will not be automatically registered, even if they pay council tax.