This page explains how to become a Parish Councillor and what this important role is really about. We hope it will encourage you and people from all walks of life to take an interest in local democracy and to think about putting yourself forward for election.

Councillors have three main areas of work:

• Decision-making: through attending meetings and committees with other elected members, councillors decide which activities to support, where money should be spent, what services should be delivered and what policies should be implemented

• Monitoring: councillors make sure that their decisions lead to efficient and effective services by keeping an eye on how well things are working

Town and Parish Councils are the grass roots of local government and democracy. There are around 8700 such councils in England and Wales, each representing its local community and promoting the best interests of its residents.

Local communities are being encouraged to become increasingly responsible for some of the things that have been looked after by central government or other organisations. It is being increasingly evident that that parish councils will play an important part as the localism act takes shape and a healthy council will be important within the 'big society' notion.

You should consider becoming a parish or town councillor if:

• You Want To Spend Your Time Productively

• You Can Think, Listen and Act Locally

Nassington Parish Council meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (excluding August). There are some additional meetings. It is IMPORTANT to ensure that these dates can accommodate your domestic and/or business arrangements.