There was a steady stream of after-work voters in the Alton Town division of the Hampshire County Council elections at St Mary’s Church in Alton. <br /><br />Many were in a hurry to get home, with one apologising that he didn’t have time to stop and talk. <br /><br />One politely declined, saying voting was “a very private thing”. <br /><br />Another, who did not want her picture taken, said “If you don’t vote, you can’t moan” - a common theme. <br /><br />One couple turned up to vote with their young son, dressed as an animal as part of schools’ efforts to celebrate David Attenborough’s 100th birthday on May 8 by getting their pupils to come to school in nature-themed clothing. <br /><br />The father did not want his whole family to appear on camera, but he gave the Herald some forthright views on school provision for children with special educational needs. <br /><br />He said: “I think it’s important to vote because if you aren’t prepared to vote then you can’t really have your say. <br /><br />“I feel strongly about schooling and support for children with special educational needs. <br /><br />“I believe the system is not fit for purpose, and from experience I believe that it’s not an effective use of public money, with what has been expected for our child, to travel to another county for schooling. <br /><br />“At the moment we’re looking at Godalming, when there’s an SEMH school that’s opening up in Alton that won’t consider him for a placement even though they are supposed to be able to meet his needs. We’ve already spoken to our MP.”
