WHILE candidates in the upcoming elections are pounding the streets and knocking on doors, a huge operation is underway behind the scenes to make sure next month’s polls run without a hitch behind the scenes.

On May 7, the town will go to the polls in parliamentary, council and parish elections, with a team of more than 600 people drafted in to ensure the administration of it all runs smoothly.

Elections are the pinnacle for the team in any year but parliamentary elections always bring an increased level of interest from voters – and this year is no exception.

Deputy returning officer Sally Sprason, who has been working on elections for more than 20 years, is responsible for making sure everything is ready and is relishing the challenge. She said: “I find it really exciting. I wouldn’t have done it for this long if I didn’t.

“Every election is busy but the parliamentary one is a whole new level. Because of the interest from the public over and above what you see at a local election, it is very busy for us.

“Although there is talk of it being close nationally, the level of interest is exactly the same as it is for other parliamentary elections.

“It’s because of the media coverage and the fact everyone wants to have their say.

“Also, people overseas can vote in a parliamentary election so we have extra interest. It’s double the turnout usually.”

Historically, counts have gone on into the early hours and this year is set to be no exception.

While the count will once again take place at the Oasis, the order is being done differently.

“The count is a very exciting night,” said Sally. “The polls close at 10pm and then all the ballot boxes are taken to the Oasis.

“We are counting the North Swindon constituency first, then South Swindon and finally the council with the parishes in between.

“That’s different from last time but we felt it would be quicker and easier to do one after the other so you have fewer boxes out at one time and more staff counting less at each point.”

A reminder is also going out to all of those who have not yet registered that they have until April 20 to ensure they have done so.

A new system was introduced last year meaning every individual is responsible for registering themselves.

Sally said: “Loads of people are using the online registration service, which is brilliant.

“But if anyone knows they are not registered or have just moved then please go to the website.

“It is open until midnight on April 20 and will tell you if you are too late. Postal votes have to be in by April 21.”

The process takes a few minutes and can be found at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote or call 01793 464601.