A "large number" of politically-minded students turned out to make sure they are registered to vote in the coming general election.

Staff from Worcester City Council’s elections team visited the Students Union at the University of Worcester yesterday to encourage students living in the city to register to vote.

In order to vote in local and general elections on Thursday, May 7 this year, Worcester residents must have registered as an elector by Monday, April 20.

Claire Chaplin, democratic and electoral services manager, said: “The students were very interested in the new electoral registration process. We had a large number registering on the day using an iPad and many others took forms to fill in and return to us. It was a very successful event and will hopefully ensure we see a good turnout in May.”

Last year, big changes were introduced to the way the electoral roll is compiled. Everyone who is eligible to vote is now responsible for registering themselves, under a new national scheme called Individual Electoral Registration.

Diane Thomas, electoral services officer at the council, said: "If you’ve recently moved to Worcester, or have changed address since you last voted, now is the time to act and make sure that you’re registered to vote in this year’s elections.”

To register, go to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote or call 01905 722027.

Visit www.worcester.gov.uk/elections for other voting options.