The countdown is on to this year’s local elections

Voters are set to go to the polls to elect their local councillors in May.

The timetable for the local elections has been announced and on Thursday May 5^th, residents will elect Councillors to Blackburn with Darwen Council in 17 wards.

The deadline for receiving applications to register to vote is Tuesday, April 14th.

This is fast approaching, but you can register to vote in a matter of minutes.

When you register and vote, you get the chance to have a major influence in decisions that affect you.

Registering to vote doesn’t just mean you can have your say in elections. Being on the electoral register can bring a range of benefits that are nothing to do with politics.

Banks and lenders will often use the electoral roll to help confirm your identity, and if they know who you are then your credit score could improve.

This could help in a whole range of situations including buying a car or securing a mortgage.

To register, go to: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

The deadline for receiving new postal vote applications is April 19^th. This is also the deadline to change existing postal or proxy votes.

The deadline for receiving new proxy vote applications is April 26^th.

If you are already registered to vote and plan to vote in person at a polling station, there is no need to re-register.

For more information about the upcoming elections, candidates and voting, visit the Council website.

The wards where voters will be electing Councillors in this election are: Audley & Queens Park, Bastwell & Daisyfield, Billinge & Beardwood, Blackburn Central, Blackburn South & Lower Darwen, Blackburn South East, Darwen East, Darwen South, Darwen West, Ewood, Little Harwood & Whitebirk, Livesey with Pleasington, Mill Hill & Moorgate, Roe Lee (2 seats), Shear Brow & Corporation Park, Wensley Fold and West Pennine.

Denise Park, Returning Officer for Blackburn with Darwen, said:

Local elections give you the chance to make your voice heard and to have your say on issues that matter to you. They can help to set the Council’s priorities and make a difference in your area.

Voting is a vital part of an open and democratic society and I would urge everyone who hasn’t registered yet to take five minutes out of their day and help to make a difference.”