Residents in Shepton Mallet have just one week left to register to vote ahead of the General Election on 4 July. The deadline for voter registration is 18 June, and local authorities are urging residents to ensure they are registered and have the necessary Voter ID.

If you are already registered and received a poll card for the Police and Crime Commissioner elections on 2 May, no further action is needed.

Young adults who have recently turned 18 or those who have moved should verify their registration status. Registration can be checked by contacting Somerset Council at 0300 123 2224. It takes five minutes to apply online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. The postal vote application deadline is 5pm on 19 June for those unable to attend the polling station.

Changes to voting for British citizens abroad

British citizens living abroad for over 15 years can now vote in UK Parliament elections if they have previously lived or been registered in the UK. They can register online, and their overseas declaration lasts for three years until 1 November in the third year after it takes effect. These changes apply to general elections, by-elections, and recall petitions but not to local elections. More information is available at electoralcommission.org.uk/overseasvoters.

Voter ID requirements

Voters must present accepted photo ID at polling stations. Those without photo ID can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate by 5pm on 26 June at www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate. For paper forms or further questions, contact 0300 123 2224 or email [email protected].

Key dates to remember

• 18 June – Deadline for voter registration
• 19 June – Deadline for postal and postal proxy vote applications
• 26 June – Deadline to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate
• 26 June – Deadline for proxy vote submissions
• 4 July – Polling day from 7am to 10pm
• 4-5 July – Counting and declarations