A CALL for 'new blood' has come from Okehampton Town Council, which is eager to fill a long standing vacancy.

The town council consists of 14 seats, but only 13 councillors are currently on the authority — there has not been a full complement since the elections in May 2011.

The vacancy has been advertised to be filled by co-option for a number of months, but there has been little interest.

Cllrs Terry Cummings and Jan Goffey joined the town council in the last 12 months through co-option, but with Cllr Dee Smith stepping down, there is still a seat to fill.

Town councillors at a special meeting to discuss the issue last week said they hope to attract a wide range of applicants, representing and reflecting the make-up of the community.

Mayor Maureen McDonald said: 'We have had this vacancy for nearly twelve months now, and we really want to reach out to the people of Okehampton and let them know what we do here.

'I would ask people who would consider joining the council, do you want to make a difference? You can help guide the future of the town and have your say in what is going on now.'

The mayor said women and younger members of the community were in the minority at council meetings.

'We want to encourage everyone of any age from any walk of life to take part in these meetings and make your voices heard.

'Anyone with an interest in the community would be appropriate, regardless of political experience. Perhaps you have worked with young people, or the elderly. Perhaps you volunteer, or just live in Okehampton and care about your community.

'Our meetings are open to the public on Monday evenings, so if you want to come and have a look at the process, you would be made more than welcome.'

Cllr Mike Davies said: 'I think as a council we should send out a letter to the Okehampton Hamlets and to any appropriate community organisations to find new blood for the council.

'If we can talk to youth organisations, and generate interest in local politics in our youngsters, that is also important to ensure future interest in the town council.'

Cllr Christine Marsh said: 'We should be looking to build stronger relationships with organisations like the chamber of trade and other groups in the town, to have a more pro-active involvement and do what we can to help townspeople during these difficult times. This is part of that process.'

As well as attending full meetings, councillors serve on two of the council's committees.

The parks committee looks after Simmons Park and other open spaces, such as the skate park, car parks, cemetery, bus shelters and outdoor seats. The planning committee is consulted on all planning applications as well as on wider strategic planning issues for the town.

The property committee is responsible for all council property, including the town hall and charter hall. Finally, the policy and resources committee deals with finance and budgetary framework, as well as IT, personnel and staffing matters.

Meetings for these committees are usually held on Monday evenings.

Anyone thinking about becoming a town councillor and who would like more information can contact the town clerk or one of the councillors, who would be pleased to have an informal discussion — contact the town council on 01837 53179, or call in at the town hall.

For more detailed information on the work of the council visit http://www.okehampton.gov.uk">www.okehampton.gov.uk