VOLUNTEERS are being sought to help guide the business of policing across England’s biggest county.

The North Yorkshire Police and Crime Panel is seeking two people to serve as co-opted independent members for a four-year term from October 2016.

Voters will be going to the polls next week to elect a new Police and Crime Commissioner for the area covered by the county’s police force.

The new commissioner will consult the panel on the plans and budget for policing, as well as the level of council tax and the appointment of a chief constable.

The panel also provides checks and balances to the commissioner’s performance.

“This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in supporting the commissioner and providing guidance on police governance and accountability,” said the chairman of the panel, county council leader Cllr Carl Les.

“The role of a panel member is an important and demanding one and we welcome people with the necessary analytical skills from a wide range of backgrounds such as community safety, victim support, criminal justice, the health service, advocacy, but also other sectors”.

The typical commitment is on average one day a month.Meetings are held at various locations around the county, and members are reimbursed for travelling expenses.

For further information visit nypartnerships.org.uk/pcp or call 01609-536030. The closing date for applications is June 10.