RESIDENTS in the Torridge District who have considered becoming a councillor are being encouraged to put themselves forward as district councillor candidates ahead of the May elections.

On May 7 the country will go to the polls for the general election and local elections for district councillors will also take place. If you have ever considered standing for election then this could be your opportunity to find out more about representing your community and, if elected, to have a say in the future shape and direction of the council and the services it provides.

Councillor Philip Collins, lead member for Torridge District Council, said: 'There are two reasons I became a councillor. One, a friend suggested I should — and yes we are still friends — and secondly I wanted to give something back to the area.

'While cuts in central government grants have made recent years somewhat challenging, we have a good can-do team spirit amongst councillors here at Torridge and long may that continue. We need people from all walks of life to represent the community so I would encourage people not to pre-judge whether they might or might not suit the role.'

The council is inviting anyone with an interest to go along to its 'prospective candidate' briefing on Thursday, March 5 at 7pm, which will be held in the committee room, Riverbank House, Chanters Road, Bideford; there is no need to pre-register, just turn up on the night and see if the idea is for you.

It will go into more detail about the role of being a councillor as well as how to complete the nomination process and put your name forward. There will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and nomination papers will be available to take away from the event.

A guide to 'Becoming a Councillor' for potential candidates may be obtained by contacting the elections team on 01237 428702.