PEOPLE are being encouraged to attend a full council meeting to see how important decisions are made.

Gateshead Council is asking local residents to attend its full meeting on Friday, at 2pm, at Gateshead Civic Centre.

They will be able to watch the proceedings from a viewing gallery in the inner council chamber, and see local councillors representing every part of Gateshead in action.

Full council meetings are held on a monthly basis and are presided over by Councillor David Lynn, Gateshead's mayor.

Council leader Mick Henry said: "I would encourage as many local people as possible to come along to this week's meeting, to see how decisions are made by all of Gateshead's local councillors.

"Every decision made at council meetings has an affect on the lives of tens of thousands of people who live, work or study in Gateshead.

"These public meetings are an opportunity to see how Gateshead Council, recognised recently as excellent by the Government, is constantly working to improve the services it provides."

In addition to attending meetings, residents can access information about the council and its departments by visiting www.gateshead. gov. uk