A COUNCIL has launched a campaign to encourage electors to register for postal votes to increase voter turn-out.

Chester-le-Street District Council is hoping recent changes in the law that lift restrictions on postal voting will lead to a turnout higher than the usual third of all voters.

With the county council elections planned for May 3 and the possibility of a General Election on the same date, the council is promoting postal voting.

The foot-and-mouth crisis also means that postal voting may become necessary for people in rural areas.

A spokesman for the council said that, of various attempts to increase voter turnout, postal voting was the most successful.

"We want to ensure that everyone who is eligible to vote has their chance," said chief executive and electoral registration officer for the district Tony Greensmith.

"The Government wishes to achieve increased turnouts at all elections and postal voting has proven to be successful everywhere in encouraging people to vote."

To apply for a postal vote, contact the Elections Office at the Civic Centre, Newcastle Road, Chester-le-Street, County Durham, DH3 3UT, or phone 0191-387 2017.