Newham mayor: 'Remember to register to vote'

It has been a hard year for all of us but I would like to pay tribute to all of you who have worked to support our community during these tough times. I am really proud of the way our Newham community has stood together and supported each other.

Over the weekend I got my jab with the AstraZeneca vaccine. I know that there have been concerns in the news but it has been confirmed as being safe – I didn’t think twice about booking my appointment.

So please do when you get contacted by the NHS, as all of us can play our part by getting vaccinated.

There is another "civic duty" I want to encourage for the benefit of the whole community.

Rokhsana Fiaz is encouraging residents to vote on May 6 (Image: Newham Council)

On May 6 there will be multiple elections in Newham – which can shape the future of the borough – whichever way you decide to vote.

You will be given the opportunity to take part in the London mayoral election; the London Assembly elections; the Newham Council governance referendum and, for people who live there, the East Ham Central ward by-election.

You have a right to vote because people fought hard for it. Make sure you use it.

Voting is easy. All of the elections will take place on the same day, meaning you only need to make one trip to the polling station to have your say in each poll.

It is even easier if you register to vote by post.

To vote, you must register if you are not already registered. You can register at gov.uk/register-to-vote

To register to vote in Newham, you must live in the borough and be aged at least 18 on election day.

Full information on voting, including how to apply for a postal vote, registration deadlines, polling station information and advice on Covid-19 is available on the Newham Council website.