IAN CLARKE A drive is underway to get more people into grassroots politics in Norfolk.Elections are being held on May 3 for district, town and parish councils and a series of workshops have been organised to encourage new members.

IAN CLARKE

A drive is underway to get more people into grassroots politics in Norfolk.

Elections are being held on May 3 for district, town and parish councils and a series of workshops have been organised to encourage new members.

The Norfolk County Association of Parish and Town Councils (NCAPTC) is working with district councils to promote democracy.

Many town and parish councils have increasingly struggled for members and not even had elections due to a shortage of candidates.

The sessions next month across Norfolk will give information on the background and legal powers of town and parish councils, the role of a councillor and what support is available.

A NCAPTC spokesman said: “There are as many reasons for becoming a local councillor as there councillors. Most people become town or parish councillors because they want to improve the local environment and the quality of life in the area and gain satisfaction that comes with making a difference locally.”

The age limit for councillors has been reduced from 21 to 18 and nominations for elections have to be in by April 4.

Workshops are at the Cranworth Room, County Hall, Norwich (Monday March 5), Park Hotel in Diss (Wednesday March 7), South Wootton Parish Office, near King's Lynn, (Wednesday March 14), Breckland Council offices at Dereham (Tuesday March 20), Cromer Town Hall, North Lodge (Thursday March 29).

All sessions start with refreshments at 7.30pm and finish at about 9pm.

Contact: 01603 664869 or e-mail enquiries@ncaptc.gov.uk