COUNCILLORS are being asked to take a lead role in decision making by a council.

Richmondshire District Council's 24 councillors are being encouraged to apply to be a 'member champion'.

The 'champion' will help lead finance and asset management, green issues, housing, business and tourism, managing car use, public toilets, litter and dogs, and other areas within the authority.

Council leader cllr Angie Dale said: “We want to do things differently giving our members shared responsibility for decision making.

“These champions should be inclusive, non-political roles.

"There is a lot of talent within our councillors, but with a corporate board of just nine members there is not a lot of opportunity to get involved.

"These champion roles change that – they will speak about how policies affect residents and the workforce.”