ANYONE living in the Blackdown Hills interested in local issues is being invited to give up a few hours a month to read and comment on sustainable development fund applications.

The Blackdown Hills Area Of Natural Beauty Partnership has a second year of funding for projects that are generated by local action and support the environmental, economic and social objectives of the management plan.

A panel made up of local volunteers considers applications and decide which projects to support.

The group is looking to recruit new members to spread the workload and ensure there is a good balance of interests and expertise.

If you are interested in agriculture, heritage, tourism or renewable energy and think you could spare some time to comment on applications, attend monthly meetings and possibly support live projects, contact Carmel Wilkinson on 01823-680681. This work is voluntary but we will pay eligible expenses.