A COUNTY Durham council is seeking to extend the skills of its elected members.

Easington District Council this week put its name to the North-East Charter for Elected Member Development, which aims to encourage greater focus on individuals.

Councillors will be encouraged and supported to develop their skills in areas including community leadership, regulation and monitoring, and political understanding.

Councillor Frank Shaw, executive member for organisational development, said: "Last year, the council agreed to develop a training and development programme for members based upon both the council's objectives and priorities, as well as the individual needs of members."

Leader of the council, Alan Napier, added: "Any local authority dedicated to meeting the needs of its community must be committed to developing its elected members and we are delighted the council has agreed to sign up to this charter."