A GROUP wants more people to get involved in playing a part in running Ludlow.

Following an earlier meeting hosted by Ludlow Town Council at the Guildhall in January People4Ludlow (P4L) has organised a further meeting as the process for elections to the Town Council approaches nearer.

“Following the great deal of interest expressed recently by members of the public in what being a town councillor entailed, we believe that there is an important discussion to be had about the potential challenges and opportunities into the future as the traditional role of local government changes,” said David Burton of the People4Ludlow Group.

“Thankfully our town council is not elected on a party-political basis and we have invited a small cross section of current councillors to informally explore some of the issues with us and to provide their insight to anyone considering standing for local election.

Graeme Perks, a member of Ludlow Town Council, is supporting the group in a private capacity rather than in his role as a councillor.

“With local elections coming in May we have to prepare well in advance to ensure that members of the public are both aware of the legal timelines to submit their candidature and of their responsibilities – if elected,” he said.

“Current town councillors are very keen to see more people standing for election and this follow-up meeting provides a further opportunity to have discussion and debate in a more informal setting.”

Robin Pote, chairman of Ludlow Town Centre Residents’ Association has also commented on the initiative.

“We look forward to taking part in the discussion as it’s clear that, with Shropshire Council budget cut-backs, we do need to consider how Ludlow moves forward into the future and the next four years are going to be critical,” said Robin Pote.

“Local democracy is going to be even more important than ever for communities - and I know that residents, whether considering standing for election or not, want to understand about how the town can work together to ensure that we all prosper.”

The discussion meeting will take place in the Queen Elizabeth Suite at the Feathers Hotel this evening Thursday, February 23 starting at 7pm. Organisers say that there is no need to book – simply come along with your questions and ideas.