RESIDENTS are being asked to check to make sure they are registered to vote and that their electoral registration details are up-to-date.

Households will start receiving letters from August 6 as part of an annual canvass to identify any residents who are not registered to vote or whose details are incorrect.

If there have been changes in the household, for example a change of address or someone has reached the age of 16 or 17, a form can be completed and returned to the address provided on the letter.

Alternatively, residents can call 0800 197 9871 or visit www.householdresponse.com/Dorset to provide the information.

Jonathan Mair, corporate director, legal and democratic, at Dorset Council, said: "Please keep a look out for the letter and let us know of any changes as soon as possible. For example, if you have recently moved to a new address you will need to update your details.

"It's really important that everyone who is entitled to vote is able to do so. Being registered to vote gives you the chance to have a say on who represents you. It also helps when applying for credit - as a way to counteract fraud, the register is used by credit agencies to confirm where someone lives.

"Please consider responding online or by telephone wherever possible, as soon as you can. As well as saving the council money by not having to send reminders, we will not need to arrange personal visits from appointed electoral canvassers to obtain the information."

Anyone with any questions is encouraged to contact Dorset Council's elections team on 01305 838299.