More than 15,000 homes in Reading have still not responded to the council's annual canvass.

Residents who have not yet responded are now being asked to look out for final reminder canvass forms being sent out by the council's electoral services from this week.

Since the summer, three phases of reminders have already been sent to Reading households.

The lack of responses could mean some residents are registered at the wrong address, while others risk not being able to vote in future elections.

The letters being sent out this week mark the final phase of the council's effort to get as many people as possible on the electoral register.

For households that do not respond, the council will have to conduct telephone canvassing, which incurs a cost to the local authority and to Reading council tax payers.

Residents must respond to the letters by November 29, in time for the new register to be published on December 1.

People who have recently moved home are particularly encouraged to look out for voter registration messages from the council and double-check the details.

Households are also being reminded to add any 16- and 17-year-olds living at the property, as they can register and vote when they turn 18.

The quickest and easiest way to reply to the final reminder is online by following the details given in the letter.

Alternatively, residents can check the details on the canvass form and update the information if necessary, returning the form in the pre-paid envelope provided.

The annual canvass is a legal requirement for all councils in England.

It ensures that authorities have the most accurate and up-to-date information on who is eligible to vote in their area.

This information is crucial for the smooth running of elections and helps to ensure that everyone who is eligible can take part in the democratic process.