Tom Gordon

NICOLA Sturgeon has urged people to make sure they are registered to vote in the general election.

Speaking ahead of National Voter Registration Week, the First Minister said the independence referendum had re-energised political debate and involvement in Scotland, and she wanted that spirit to continue for future elections.

"Since the record 85 per cent turnout at the referendum, I have been struck by the number of then first time voters who have told me they are looking forward to casting their second vote at the General Election. This is hugely inspiring - and while we will be doing everything we can to persuade them to vote SNP, it is great to see people so enthused by politics.

"We must keep encouraging as many people as possible to make their vote count so Scotland's voice is heard loudly and clearly at Westminster."