Lancashire County Council is asking people to consider if they could be a councillor ahead of next year’s county elections – and had organised two events in Preston in October where anyone interested can fins out more about what’s involved.

Lancashire County Council is holding local elections in May 2017 and new candidates are needed to represent their areas. There will be 84 seats available to cover the 12 Lancashire district areas.

“If you care about the area that you live or work in and the issues facing local people, we need you,” says Jo Turton, Chief Executive of the Council.

“You don’t need any special qualifications or experience to be a county councillor, skills gained through raising a family, volunteering or being active in faith or community groups can be just as valuable. The role is a privileged position which allows you to make a real difference to people’s daily lives.

“Councillors have three main roles; to represent the people in their local area and listen to their views; to make decisions about how the Council is run, what services should be provided, and how money is spent; and to provide community leadership so that different organisations all work together to make their area a better place.

“If you think you could be a voice for your community and would like to be involved in shaping decisions which will affect local residents, we want to hear from you. We are inviting people who are interested in standing to come along to one of our information events in October and find out more.”

Information events will be held on 10th and 25th October at County Hall, Preston, where you can come along, find out what’s involved and how you could become a county councillor.

Both events start at 5.30pm and there will be presentations on a day in the life of a councillor, what support is available, and what you need to know about the election process. There will also be the opportunity to speak informally to council officers, District Electoral Officers and the Local Government Association

• Register your interest in attending an event or find out more by visiting www.beacouncillor.co.uk/lancashire