THE VALE council is encouraging residents not currently on the electoral roll to register to vote, following a bumper turnout in the general election earlier this month.

Almost three quarters (72.7 per cent) of those registered to vote in the Vale turned out to cast a ballot on June 8.

Acting returning officer for the Vale of Glamorgan, Debbie Marles, said: "Turnout at this election was higher than for the previous general election and for many of the other polls that have been held in recent years.

"Almost 54,000 votes were case but unfortunately, as always, a small number of people had to be turned away from polling stations on the day because they were not registered to vote."

A common myth surrounding electoral registration is that the Council can use council tax payment information to add names to the register. This is not the case however, as the local authority is not legally allowed to use the information for this purpose.

It is also not the case that completing the annual ‘canvass’ form that many households receive adds names to the register. Since 2014, completing this form triggers a second letter that must be signed and returned for residents of a property to be added to the roll.

People who are not on the electoral register are unable to vote in elections, or stand for elected office. Having your name on the roll can also increase your credit score, which can help to secure loans or mortgages.

Ms Marles went on to say: "We do a great deal to promote registering ahead of each election but this is not the only time that residents can add their names to the electoral register. This can be done all year round and so we are now encouraging residents to check their details so that they can be sure of having their say at the next election.

"This can be done by calling 01446 729552, or by e-mailing electoralregistration@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk."