CENSUS forms are being sent out to homes across the News Shopper area today.

People in Bromley, Lewisham, Greenwich, Bexley, Gravesham, Dartford and Swanley will receive the distinctive purple and white envelopes by March 27.

Around 26 million people across England and Wales are required to take part in the census, either online or by post.

2011 census director Glen Watson said: "Completing the census form promptly and sending it back to us means no one will have to knock on your door to remind you.

"Census statistics enable the authorities in England and Wales to plan properly for the future for school places, housing, roads, emergency services and a host of other local services.”