First time voters in the county are set to receive a special card on their 18th birthday, courtesy of East Lothian Council.

The 'Now You Are 18' birthday cards have been specially produced to encourage young people to get involved in the democratic process, and to make sure that they use their vote.

East Lothian Provost Sheena Richardson is behind the move, which she is confident will be welcomed acorss the political spectrum.

“The card is similar to that already sent out by a number of councils across the country. It is not intended to influence support for any particular party or individual - merely to remind young people of their hard-won democratic rights and of the importance of getting involved in their own communities,” said Councillor Richardson.

“Young people have strong opinions on a whole range of issues, and have so much to offer in terms of their energy, ideas and commitment. We want them to feel that they are very much a part of what goes on at local and national level, and that their contribution is as important as that of anyone else to the decision-making process”.

Around 500 of the cards will be issued by the Council between now and the end of November, when the new electoral roll comes into force.

ENDS 25 April 2008

Issued by David Russell, Corporate Communications.
Tel. 01620 827655. Fax. 01620 827442. Email. drussell@eastlothian.gov.uk