WEST Devon voters who have moved recently or those who are planning to cast their first ever votes in local and general elections this May 7 could be among voters 'missing' off the new electoral register.

It takes just five minutes to register online by putting in your name, address, date of birth, and National Insurance number.

West Devon elections office staff are keen to ensure that everyone who is eligible to vote in the parish, borough and general elections do not miss out on their opportunity to have a say in who helps run their parish, borough or country.

The easiest and quickest way to register is online at http://www.gov.uk/registertovote">www.gov.uk/registertovote

Provided your details match up with the information held by the Department for Work and Pensions you will be successfully registered.

Elections officer Clare Chapman said: 'We are trying to ensure any "missing" voters in West Devon do not lose out. 

'A significant number have responded following a letter sent out to more than 25,000 West Devon households earlier this month which indicated the persons currently registered for the property — but there may still be more who may not have registered.

'Among those people we are trying to capture are those young people voting for the first time.

'They will be 18 either on or before May 7 and we want to encourage them to spend just five minutes to register to vote online.

'People who have recently moved may also be amongst the "missing" voters and should also take the time to register.

'Those people who are already registered do not need to do anything and will receive a polling card in April.'

April 20, 2015 is the last date for registration for the elections on May 7.

If you do not know your National Insurance number call 0300 200 3502.