THE forthcoming local elections offer a chance for people to join Dartmoor National Park Authority as well as being elected to a district or parish council.

The Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA) is encouraging anyone interested in having a say in how the area is run to consider standing as a parish councillor. 

The forthcoming local elections on May 5 will not only decide the make-up of parish and district councils, but will also affect the membership of the national park authority. 

Four of the authority's 22 members are elected from the parish councils within the national park. For anyone interested in being a parish councillor, there is still time. The closing date for nominations is noon on Monday April 4, with voting due to take place on May 5, if the election is contested. 

Following the elections, there will be a nomination and balloting process organised by the Devon Association of Local Councils to confirm nominations to the authority.

Kevin Bishop, Dartmoor National Park Authority chief executive, said: 'Parish councils play a pivotal role in providing local services and representing local interests. National park authorities are unique in having formal representation of parishes on their committees. 

'If you care about your local community and want to help look after the national park I would urge you to consider standing as a parish councillor and then put your name forward for election to the national park authority. 

'Dartmoor needs people with passion and vision who want to make a practical difference.'

People wanting more information on standing as a parish councillor should contact their local district or borough council or the Devon Association of Local Councils. 

Nomination forms are available from parish clerks or the returning officer of district or borough councils.

For more information on the parish member election process for Dartmoor National Park Authority contact the Devon Association of Local Councils.