THE formal notice of the European Parliamentary election for the South West region has been published - even though the poll may never take place.

Voters will choose six members of the Parliament on Thursday, May 23 - provided the election is contested.

The region includes the new Somerset West and Taunton Council area, created to replace the existing Taunton Deane Borough and West Somerset Councils.

Nomination papers can be obtained from Room 156, Civic Centre, Municipal Road, Poole, BH15 2RU or downloaded from electoralcommission.org.uk

Completed nomination papers must be returned to the same address no later than 4pm on Wednesday, April 24.

If you are not already registered to vote, applications must be made to the electoral registration officer at Somerset West and Taunton Council, West Somerset House, Killick Way, Williton, TA4 4QA, by Tuesday, May 7.

Applications, amendments or cancellations of postal votes must reach the officer by 5pm on Wednesday, May 8.

Applications to vote by proxy must be received by 5pm on Wednesday, May 15.

Applications to vote by emergency proxy may be made if a person learns they cannot go to the polling station because of their occupation, service or employment, or if a medical condition, illness or disability arises after 5pm on Wednesday, May 15 they must reach the electoral registration officer by 5pm on the day of the poll.