Don't miss chance to vote in election for commissioner

The first ever elections for police and crime commissioners (PCCs), who will be accountable for how crime is tackled in local police force areas, will be held on 15 November 2012 and residents are being encouraged to ensure that they will be able to vote by being on the electoral register. Jeff Chalk, Electoral Services Manager said:  “You must be on the electoral register to vote in these new elections. If you have recently moved to the area, or moved house it is important to make sure that you register at your new address otherwise you won’t be able to vote. “It only takes a few minutes to complete a registration form but you must make sure we receive it by Wednesday, 31st October.” “Also, if you will be away on holiday, or think you might be caught up in work you can make sure you have your say by applying to vote by post or proxy”. Registration and postal vote forms are available by calling 265141 or are available online at www.exeter.gov.uk PCCs will be able to set the priorities for the police force within their force area, respond to the needs and demands of their communities more effectively, ensure that local and national priorities are suitably funded by setting a budget and the local precept, and hold to account the local chief constable for the delivery and performance of the force Although the Home Office has overall responsibility for the PCC elections, the elections are being run by local returning officers (LROs) in each local authority, with police area returning officers (PAROs) co-ordinating across each force area.