Residents in Cumnock and Doon Valley are being urged to register to vote in the local government elections on May 4.

The deadline to register is less than a month away, on Monday, April 17.

First time voters, including 16 and 17 year olds, are among those being asked to ensure they are registered to make sure their vote counts.

Registration can be done in just a few minutes online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote Even if you will be away on holiday, or think you might be caught up in work, you can still have your say by applying to vote by post or proxy. Registration and postal vote and proxy forms are all available by calling 01292 612221 or visit www.yourvotematters.co.uk for deadline dates.

East Ayrshire Council returning officer Fiona Lees said: “Anyone who is not registered to vote by the deadline of Monday, April 17 won’t be able to take part in the local council elections so they should act now to make sure they can have their say on polling day.

“Registering is easy, and you can do it online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote in just a few minutes. You only need your National Insurance number, date of birth and address to hand. Anyone without internet access can register to vote by completing a paper form and returning it to their local registration office by the 17 April registration deadline.

“We don’t want anyone who is eligible to vote to miss their chance to do so, particularly 16 and 17 year olds who may be voting for the first time. Make sure you are registered and that nothing stops you voting on 4 May for the person who will represent you in the council and help to make decisions on the provision of your local services.”