THE North York Moors National Park has a vacancy on a panel which plays a major role in shaping the direction of the park.

The appointment to the park authority’s team of members will be made by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) Michael Gove later this year.

The authority’s 20 members are responsible for decisions regarding the strategic management of the park, including planning applications, conservation efforts, accessibility, engagement with young people and communications at all levels.

Candidates will need to have a good awareness of the issues affecting national parks and a clear understanding of the park’s purposes and expected to act as ambassadors for the North York Moors.

Jim Bailey, chairman of the North York Moors National Park Authority, said: “The members of the national park authority work as a collaborative force to set the policies and priorities that help care for and protect this beautiful corner of Yorkshire.

“We try to balance the needs of the national park, its people, landscape, wildlife and culture, with the needs of visitors who come to enjoy the area.”

Five of the authority’s members are appointed by the Government. The rest are elected by parish councils and local authorities within the North York Moors.

The position is unsalaried, although an allowance and expenses are provided. Members are asked to commit between two and three days a month to the role.

Recruitment closes at noon on Wednesday, April 11. Further information on how to apply can be found at; https://publicappointments.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/appointment/secretary-of-state-board-members or contact the North York Moors National Park Authority on 01439-772700 or general@northyorkmoors.org.uk.