POSTAL voters claim they were nearly cut out of democracy after the council forgot to send their ballot papers.

Three voters in the Epping Forest District received their voting packs in the post, but were unable to cast their vote as the most vital document was left out.

A voter told the Guardian: “After receiving my postal vote documents this week from the district council, I noticed that the ballot paper was missing.

“I spoke to the council who apologised and said that a few people had the same issue.

“I find this worrying because according to the council, all ballot papers were counted to ensure none were missing prior to them sending them out.

“I am surprised and quite shocked that such an error can be made given how important the general election is.”

The council defended itself, saying “only three people” out of 9,000 had complained.

A spokesman said: “Almost 9,000 residents have requested postal votes. Three local residents have contacted us with concerns their postal voting packs were not complete. We are sorry for any inconvenience in these cases. In each instance we have cancelled their ballot and issued them with another one.”

The general election takes place on June 8.

Six candidates are standing in the election.