Torbay residents are being urged to ensure that they are registered to vote for Torbay's biggest elections since 1979.

As well as the UK wide Parliamentary General election, elections are taking place for the elected Mayor of Torbay, Torbay Council and Brixham Town Council on Thursday 7 May.

If you are not currently registered and wish to vote, you must register by Monday 20 April 2015. You can register to vote in several ways:

• Go to www.gov.uk/registertovote
• Contact the Electoral Registration helpline on 01803 208008
• Email electoral.registration@torbay.gov.uk

If you can't get to a polling station then Torbay Council is reminding voters that they can apply for a postal vote, provided that they are registered under the new system of individual registration, which came into force in 2014. If you are unsure if you have been registered contact the Electoral Registration helpline or register online.

Torbay Council’s Acting Returning Officer, Caroline Taylor, said: “Registering to vote by post is an excellent way of making sure that you don’t miss out on your right to vote and that your voice can be heard in this May’s elections.

"It's quick and easy to apply for a postal vote - you can go online, use the telephone or email. Please remember that completed applications must be received by 5pm on Tuesday 21 April 2015."