WOULD-be councillors have one month left to put themselves forward for Somerset County Council elections in May.

The deadline for nominations is 4pm on Tuesday, April 4, and there are 55 seats available to be filled when the county goes to the ballot box on Thursday, May 4.

Each seat is a chance to make a real difference to the local community and get involved in the huge range of services provided by the council.

The authority is encouraging passionate people who want to make difference to come forward and stand for election.

“County councillors can have a big impact on the communities they serve,” said Pat Flaherty, the council’s chief executive and the returning officer for the elections.

“They can champion local issues and influence decisions and the way the authority works.

“We want people from all sorts of backgrounds and walks of life to stand in the May elections and would urge anyone who is considering it to take the plunge and find out more.

“You don’t have to belong to a political party or have previous experience.

"We want people who can bring their life experiences into the council and bring the voice of the local community.”

In return for their work with local communities and attending meetings and events, councillors receive allowances and are provided with IT equipment and offered training to help them in their role.

Fore more information on the election click here.