Bishop Sentamu is urging people to use their vote

The Right Reverend Doctor John Sentamu has issued a full colour advert with the slogan "For God's Sake Birmingham Use Your Vote!".

The ad will run in the city's Evening Mail and Metro newspaper from Tuesday.

Bishop Sentamu fears extremist groups could win seats in the local and Euro elections through voter apathy.

Turning up to vote is one of those things that all of us who are eligible to vote can do Bishop Sentamu

The advert, which will run ahead of Thursday's elections, warns that by not voting, people run the risk of short-changing the city.

It goes on to say: "Not voting creates a political vacuum, leaving the way open to unrepresentative politicians and parties to get their way."

The advert ends with an encouragement urging voters to "be the change in the world you want to see, be the answer to Birmingham."

Bishop Sentamu said: "There is a chance that apathy could let undesirable characters sneak in.

"Turning up to vote is one of those things that all of us who are eligible to vote can do."

Referring to the recent commemoration of the 60th anniversary of D-Day, he added: "It is significant that these elections take place.

"The veterans gave up their today for our tomorrow. Their spirit of courage is urging us to follow their good example".