RESIDENTS in Potters Bar who are set to vote by post in next week s by-election are being urged to return their ballot paper as soon as possible. The call has been made by Hertsmere Borough Council in light of the threat of upcoming postal strikes within

RESIDENTS in Potters Bar who are set to vote by post in next week's by-election are being urged to return their ballot paper as soon as possible.

The call has been made by Hertsmere Borough Council in light of the threat of upcoming postal strikes within Royal Mail.

The by-election is being held in the town's Oakmere ward on October 22, to elect a successor to borough councillor Martin Heywood, who passed away on September 5.

By-elections are also taking place in the Borehamwood North electoral division for the county council and the Hillside ward of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council.

Postal ballots were issued to residents on October 9 and they are now being asked to return them promptly.

A borough council spokeswoman said: "Although the final details about a postal strike have not yet been announced by Royal Mail, the potential first date of action is 22 October - the day of the election itself - so it is possible that votes posted close to this date will not arrive in time."

Postal votes can also be handed in to one of the polling stations on the day, anytime between 7am and 10pm.

For more information about the election, call Hertsmere Borough Council on 020 8207 7481 or email electoral.registration@hertsmere.gov.uk