RESIDENTS are being urged to register to vote as the deadline is looming. 

The Electoral Commission has teamed up with Nextdoor, the new social network for neighbourhoods, to remind new residents to sign up. 

Government figures suggest that over two million people moved house in the last year, while Commission research shows that just 28% of recent home movers are registered to vote.

Craig Westwood, director of Communications at the Electoral Commission said: "Anyone who is eligible to vote at the General Election should be able to take part. However, if you're not registered to vote by the deadline of 22 May, then you won't be able to have your say. We're urging anyone not yet registered to go online and register as soon as possible."

Anyone not sure if they are already registered should check with their local authority. They can visit www.yourvotematters.co.uk to find contact details.