VALE Royal Borough Council has begun the canvass for the new Register of Electors.

Registration forms will be delivered to every property in Vale Royal between August 5 and September 11.

The law says that everyone has to register but it is your choice whether to vote or not. Many people were unable to vote at the parliamentary and county council elections in May because they had not registered.

Registration has never been easier. If there are no changes to the registration form you can register by telephone - just follow the instructions on the form and dial the free phone number.

If someone has moved in or out of the property in the last 12 months, then the form needs to be amended and returned to the address on the form.

During the canvass period a Vale Royal Borough Council canvasser may knock at your door but will not ask to enter the property. All canvassers will wear identity badges.

If you have recently moved, and have not re-registered, now is your opportunity to do so. To make sure you are registered, fill in the form as soon as you receive it unless you are likely to move house before October 15, in which case leave the form for the new occupier and make sure you fill in a form for your new property.

Banks, building societies and credit companies check the electoral roll when anyone applies for a mortgage, credit or loan. Even if you only want to rent a TV, the electoral roll is checked to make sure you are registered at the address given.

Since February 2001 the law has changed enabling you to register to vote at any time. In addition, however, an update is carried out in September, October and November with an amended register being published on December 1. During this period the rolling register is suspended.

An amended register will be published on December 1 from information provided during this canvass. Residents will be able to view the register at any Vale Royal Borough Council office.

Ifyournameis notincluded,oryour details are incorrect, you may make a claim to amend your details or have your name included by contacting the Electoral Registration Office on 01606 867625 or 867626. These will be dealt with when the first Notice of Alteration is published on January 3.

If you wish to register at any other time of the year, forms are available by calling the Electoral Registration Office on 01606 867625 or 867626.