MEMBERS of the local community are being asked to come forward to join a police authority.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Authority are looking for six independent minded people to join the authority and serve on it from April next year.

It is the police authority's job is to ensure that local people have a say in how they are policed and to hold the police force to account for the services delivered.

Councillor Stephen Murphy Chairman of Greater Manchester Police Authority said, "As an independent member of the police authority, you will have the chance to make a real difference to policing in GMP. These are exciting and challenging times. The police service is undergoing major reform and you can play an active part in helping us drive up standards of police performance.

"It is important that people feel safe. By contributing to the work of the police authority, you could play your part in improving public confidence and reducing the fear of crime."

"Applicants must be over 21 and be able to commit to a minimum of 1 day a week for up to four years."

Independent members must also be local people who are neither councillors or magistrates and who live or work in the GMP area.

The role involves attending all meetings of the police authority and committee/s panels to which you may be appointed; keeping up to date with local and national policing developments; representing the police authority in discussions with other interested parties and attending local consultation meetings with the public

The closing date for applications is November 18, 2002.

To find out more contact tel: 0161 793 3021 or visit the GMPA website at www.gmpa.gov.uk