MEMBERS of the public are needed to help monitor their councillors.

West Dorset District Council and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council are advertising for independent persons to act to help maintain councillor standards.

The successful applicants will be consulted during any complaint processes relating to members.

The new positions have come about as a result of the Localism Act, which requires that people independent of the council are involved in the investigation process to maintain standards. The act also brings in a new code of conduct for councillors to abide by, which is available online at dorsetforyou.com. Monitoring officer Roger Greene said there had already been a number of applications for the independent persons roles, which have to be in by September 3.

For more information and an application form contact Mr Greene on 01305 252253 or email R.Greene@ westdorset-weymouth.gov.uk.