The register is updated every year, with forms being sent to every residential address. These were sent out in August 2009 – Residents are asked to either confirm their details by post, telephone or internet or to make any additions, amendments or deletions on the form and return it by post.

Between August and November, you can only register using the household voter registration form for your address.

You must be a British, Irish or Commonwealth citizen or a citizen of another European Union state, over 18 and resident in order to vote.

For further information and contact details see the Hambleton electoral services or Ryedale electoral services website.

Postal votes

Voting by post is an easy and convenient way of voting, particularly if you are unable to get to the polling station on the day of the election.

Postal votes are available to anyone on the electoral register who requests one, and are sent to your home address a week before the poll, allowing you to fill out and return the ballot paper at your own leisure.

If you want a postal vote, you need to arrange one in advance of the election by following the above links

Proxy votes

Although more complex than a postal vote, if you are unable to get to the polling station you can also appoint someone to vote on your behalf – for example if you will be abroad during an election.