THE people of the Bedale area are being given the chance to have a say in its future.

They are being asked to highlight their priorities for the community to help guide future policy.

The Bedale and Villages Community Plan Forum wants to know what projects, issues and actions are still needed to make the area a better place to live, work and play.

Set up in 2001, the forum aims to communicate the needs and aspirations of the local community and to ensure it is given the opportunity to feed views into the Hambleton Community Plan.

"We have already achieved a considerable amount in Bedale and the surrounding areas," said chairman Mike Barningham.

"Now we want to check if we still have the right issues and actions in the work plan and what new projects, issues and actions are needed to make the place a better place for the future."

The next meeting of the group takes place at 7.30pm on May 12 in the Ballroom at Bedale Hall and new members are welcome.

For more information about the role of the LSP Area Groups, or to get involved contact community link officer Peter Cole on 01609-767212 or email peter.cole@hambleton.gov.uk