TWO new parish councils are set to be formed in Richmondshire, in line with Government requirements.

Brough with St Giles, between Richmond and Catterick, and East Witton, in Lower Wensleydale, would each have five councillors.

The move comes under the Local Government and Rating Act, which compels district councils to establish separate parish councils where populations exceed 200.

A report to Richmondshire resources committee on Tuesday shows that Brough with St Giles' population has grown from 45 in 1999 to 233.

A parish boundary review abolished the parishes of East Witton Town and East Witton Out. A new parish council of East Witton would be formed to encompass these.

The proposed orders would see both new councils come into being on April 1 next year, with elections held on May 1