Going to the polls

Anyone who has not yet registered to vote for the election on Thursday 5 May is urged to do so immediately.

The deadline to register to vote is midnight on Thursday 14 April. You can apply online at gov.uk/register-to-vote. It takes just five minutes.

Registered electors are reminded that they can also apply for a postal vote and should do so no later than 5pm on Tuesday 19 April. 

There are currently 207,368 people on the Sunderland Electoral Register and 87,864 electors (42 per cent) are registered for a postal vote.

Sunderland Returning Officer, Patrick Melia said: "The election is an important opportunity to make your voice heard and have a say on who represents you on issues that directly affect day-to-day life here in Sunderland.

"If you're not registered by 14 April, you won't be able to vote."

Sunderland holds election by 'thirds' for its 75 councillors. Therefore one seat of the three in each of the city's 25 wards is up for election and 25 councillors are due to be elected. 

Mr Melia added: "If you have turned 18, or if you have moved home recently, it's particularly important that you act to ensure that you are registered. It takes just five minutes to register and it means that you can take part in this important election."

In addition to registering online at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote, please call Sunderland Electoral Services on 0191 520 5550 or email elections@sunderland.gov.uk