ANYONE who cannot make it to their nearest polling station when local elections are held in May can still get a proxy vote.

As part of that, another person can be appointed on a person's behalf to vote at the polling station.

To apply for a proxy vote, you need to register no longer than April 25, next Wednesday.

You must provide a reason for why you will not be able to vote. Reasons might include being away on holiday at the time.

To get information about voting in Oxford City, West Oxfordshire or Cherwell district council elections you can get information on an online form.

Anita Bradley, Oxford City Council's returning officer, said: "If you know you're not going to be able to get down to the polling station, there's no reason to miss out.

"There is still time to arrange for someone to vote on your behalf with a proxy vote. But don't delay. You've only got until April 25."

If you are unable to vote after the close of the proxy vote deadline on April 25, because of illness, physical incapacity or unforeseen work, you might still be able to get a proxy for those unforeseen reasons.

For more information about the process of getting a proxy vote, visit www.yourvotematters.co.uk/how-do-i-vote/voting-by-proxy.

For more help in your district, call Oxford City Council on 01865 249811, West Oxfordshire District Council on 01993 861000 or Cherwell District Council on 01295 227001.