People being urged to get their local councils up and running

Fifers have been urged to get more involved in their towns and villages by getting their local community councils back up and running.

A fresh round of elections has been announced for October 3 for areas that no longer have a community council – but only if residents submit a petition to re-establish one.

Petitions have already been received for Blairhall and Coaltown of Wemyss but there are 17 other areas across Fife without community representation – and new blood is being sought.

They are Auchmuty and Woodside; Bennochy and Hayfield, Carnbee and Arncroach, Carnock and Gowkhall, Collessie, Crombie, Glenwood, Headwell, Izatt Avenue and Netherton, Kirkcaldy East, Kirkcaldy North, Largoward, Methilhill, Moonzie, South Parks and Rimbleton, Templehall and West Wemyss.

While there are 87 active community councils out of a potential 105, Fife Council coleaders David Ross and David Alexander have called on locals to give their neighbourhoods a voice.

Anyone interested in reestablishing a community council needs a petition signed by at least 20 people who are named on the electoral register in the area, which should be submitted to Fife Council.

Potential candidates must be at least 16, be registered to vote and live in the area they want to represent.

Further information is available by visiting fifedirect. org.uk/communitycouncil, or contact the Returning Officer, Fife Council, North Street, Glenrothes, KY7 5LT.