THE Forest of Dean District Council is reminding everyone the countdown to the local elections and the alternative vote referendum on May 5 has started.

The council's Electoral Services team is encouraging people who are not already on the register of electors to register by April 14 so they can have their say at the local elections and referendum. Postal voting applications must also be received by 5pm on this date.

The council's Electoral Services manager, Geraldine Randall-Wilce, said: "We would like as many people as possible to turn out to vote at the District Council and parish council elections on May 5. 

"Registering to vote or applying for a postal vote only takes a few minutes. Residents can print off a form from http://www.aboutmyvote">www.aboutmyvote.

co.uk or telephone 01594 812692. All forms need to be dropped into our Coleford offices, faxed or sent by post as a signature is needed on them."

Nomination forms for anyone wishing to be a candidate are available by calling 01594 812628/29. Completed forms must be submitted by 12 noon on April 4.    

More information on the elections and referendum is available by visiting http://www.fdean.gov.uk/">www.fdean.gov.uk/ go/elections