I WAS delighted to read Rosemarie Dawson was able to vote on her birthday (Teenager Celebrates Casting Her First Vote, News Shopper, May 10).

My 21st birthday was in December 1952 and I expected to vote in the council elections in May 1953.

A young man, a neighbour's son, who worked at Lewisham Town Hall, called to check the electoral roll.

I expected him to add my name, but was told I had to do a six-month residential qualification.

I told him I had lived at the house since I was born, but he said it had to be after my birthday.

Therefore I could not vote.

Since then I have never missed a vote in either a general or council election.

DOREEN FIDLER
Sidcup