Ref: EuropeElections
Date: 27/04/09

Voters are being urged to apply for a postal vote if they think they won’t be able to visit a polling station for the European elections on 4 June.

The six seats in the Yorkshire and Humber region are up for election this year and there is no need for anyone to lose their chance to vote.

Anyone on the electoral register can choose to vote by post if they cannot make it to a polling station.

The Council’s Electoral Services Manager Christine Mason said: "We want everyone on the electoral register to use their voice and vote in this year’s local elections. Some people might find it difficult to get out and vote due to work commitments, they may be infirm or might not be in the area on the day but still want their chance to have a say on who represents them in Europe.

"That’s where postal votes come into their own. People can apply for just one election, for a set period of time or for a permanent postal vote – the choice is theirs."

Tuesday 19 May by 5pm is the last day voters can apply to vote by post. Proxy applications can be made until 5pm on 27 May. Anyone wishing to apply to vote by post or proxy should contact the Electoral Services team in Room 312, Country Hall, Wakefield team, Tel: 01924 305023, email elections@wakefield.gov.uk.

Postal voters will receive their ballot paper shortly after 26 May. They cannot be sent out any earlier than this. Electors voting by post should ensure that their papers are returned to the Electoral Services Office by 4 June or earlier.

People who have a postal vote will not be able to vote in person at a polling station.

For those people voting in person, 170 polling stations across the district will be open between 7am and 10pm on Thursday, 4 June.

Information about your nearest polling station is available on the poll card you have recently received through the post.

Results will be counted and announced by the Regional Returning Officer at Leeds City Council on Sunday 7 June.

To find out how and where to vote in the Wakefield district watch out for your poll card or your ballot papers in the post or visit www.wakefield.gov.uk nearer the elections.

ENDS