Internet Voting Proving A Huge Success

Last year the election turnout in Swindon was 32 per cent, with just 44,957 of the town's 140,491 registered voters turning out. Of those, 6,000 votes, or 13 per cent, were cast over the internet or by phone.

Swindon is one of 30 towns in the country where such voting is possible, and the project has been such a success that the Government's Electoral Commission believes it could lead to the first ever electronic general election by the end of the decade.

It is also believed the scheme has been a big hit with younger voters, who are put off by having to change their daily routine to attend a polling station. New College A-level student Tom Daniel, 18, from Stratton St Margaret, said: "I voted over the internet.

"It is easier and quicker than going to a polling booth.

"It's the only chance for you to make your opinion known and I think the electronic voting is a great idea that should be extended across the country."

Swindon Council spok-eswoman Sarah Deacon said: "The new voting methods are proving a great success and we are delighted."

The electronic voting methods are available until noon Wednesday, 30th April.

Vote online at www.swindonelection.net