RESIDENTS living in a Kidderminster ward are being reminded that the deadline to ensure they are registered to vote in a by-election is fast approaching.

The poll for the vacant Wyre Forest District Council seat in the Blakebrook and Habberley South ward will take place on Thursday, September 24 following the resignation of Conservative Councillor Ruth Gregory.

But, to be eligible to vote, people living in the ward must ensure they are registered by midnight on Tuesday, September 8.

People can register by visiting www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. Anyone without access to the internet can get a paper copy of the registration form from the Worcestershire Hub at the Town Hall in Kidderminster.

Residents wishing to vote by post or proxy vote must fill out application forms which are available to download from the Council’s website www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/elections.

The deadline for applying for a postal vote is 5pm on Wednesday, September 9 while the proxy vote deadline is 5pm on Wednesday, September 16.

Anyone who lives in the Blakebrook & Habberley South ward and is unsure whether they are registered to vote at their current address should email electoral@wyreforestdc.gov.uk or contact the Electoral Services Team on 01562 732928.

Ian Miller, Returning Officer for Wyre Forest, said: “We always encourage people to register to vote and make their voice heard.

“There may be people who have moved to the area, or young people who have turned 18 since the elections in May, who are now entitled to vote in this by-election.

"Anyone in Blakebrook & Habberley South who will be 18 or over on Thursday, September 24 and has not yet registered to vote should do so as soon as possible. It only takes a few minutes to complete the form online.”