THE importance of using your vote has never been more crucial.

This year's elections both nationally and locally are likely to be the most hotly contested for years and now is your opportunity to have your say.

Around the world, and in generations gone by, people have died for the right to vote, and it is something we often take for granted.

Failure to vote would be to ignore the strength of collective power that means the electorate has the opportunity to say how the country is run.

Whether you have made your mind up already or are still a 'floating voter', come May 6, the decision is yours.

Whether it be education, the economy, the NHS, or immigration that inspires you to vote, now is the time to influence the ruling classes.

If you do not bother to vote, then what right do you have to complain about how the country is being run?

The risk of not voting could allow extremist parties such as the BNP to gain a foothold in the country, and increase their view for a divided Britain.

This would be a disaster and a backwards step for the country, only by voting, can you avoid this.

If you are not registered to vote sign up now.

The deadline to register as a postal voter is 5pm on Tuesday, April 20. Don't miss it.

How Harrow and the country are governed is a choice which you have the chance to make.

Don't throw away the opportunity.