Cotswold residents are being warned not to lose their voice on decisions that affect them by making sure their electoral registration details are up to date.

With Police and Crime Commissioner, county council and some parish council elections taking place next year, this is an important opportunity for residents to make sure they can take part.

The annual canvass ensures that the council can keep the electoral register up to date, identifying any residents who are not registered so that they can be encouraged to do so.

Sarah Dalby, electoral services manager at Cotswold District Council, said: “We’ll be sending out communications to all households in the district in the coming weeks.

"This will begin with emails to residents and letters will be delivered beginning in early August.

"It’s vital for residents to make sure their details are accurate, and to ensure they respond where they need to.

"We want to make sure that every eligible resident in the district has the right to vote.

“If you’re not currently registered, your name will not appear in the messages we send.

“This year’s canvass, which we have to carry out by law, is taking place during a challenging public health situation.

"We are working to ensure that we take account of public health guidelines, including the continued importance of social distancing.”

People who have moved recently are particularly encouraged to look out for the voter registration messages from the council and check the details.

To register, or for more information, visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.