Exercising your X factor

Everyone knows that voting in an election involves marking an X on a ballot paper and below are just three exampes of people who intend to exercise their X Factor next time round.

Jennie Pearson, 90, was born at a time when women did not have a vote. By the time she was 21, women had the same rights as men. Voting is something she takes very seriously, "I find out what people are standing for - it's important as politics affects your street, your town and Britain as a whole."

Carterton resident Lani Watt was born in the Philippines and ,after 11 years in the UK, formally became a British resident last year. The next election will be her first chance to vote here and she says "I'm looking forward to it - I'll definetly use my X factor!"

Although many young people are reluctant to vote, 18 year-old Joe Hollis isn't one of them. "I voted last May and will be doing it again this year at home or at university," he says

In West Oxfordshire, the next elections are scheduled for Thursday 1st May. Then electors can vote for candidates contesting 16 of the 49 seats on the District Council and over 140 seats spread among 20 local parish or town councils.

Before you can vote, your name must be on the Electoral Register. Forms are sent to each household in the Autumn. If you move house, remember to let us know so we can update our records - don't lose your right to vote!

Visit out Electoral Registration page to find out more.