ALMOST 7,000 district residents will be voting by post in the May elections.

Voters who have opted for a postal ballot should be receiving their papers within the next few days. Included is a special 'one-piece' mailer residents use to return their votes.

Democratic services manager Amanda de Warr said: "Voting is so simple it can be done from your armchair."

However, voters are being urged to take extra care when returning their envelopes, especially when more than one person in the household is voting by post.

Ms de Warr added: "The biggest mistake voters can make is to muddle up the return envelopes. This can invalidate the votes so I urge postal voters to take extra care."

The elections have been well publicised by Wychavon District Council. Banners have been displayed and a four-page election guide printed in The Wychavon Magazine. Even beer mats have carried the message about the importance of voting.

Ms de Warr said: "Wychavon wants as many people as possible to use their right to vote."

There is still time to apply for a postal vote. Applications need to be in by 5pm on April 23. For further information contact the democratic services team on 01386 565162 or go to www.wychavon.gov.uk.