RECRUITS are being sought to keep an eye on County Durham councillors to ensure they conduct themselves properly.

Durham County Council and the county's police and fire authorities are on the look-out for people to act as public watchdogs.

They will be independent members of the standards committees that the bodies must set up under the shake-up of local government.

The committees are charged with overseeing the councillors' code of conduct and promoting high standards. They will also consider allegations of impropriety.

The county council has one vacancy while the police and fire authorities have two each.

Applicants for the council vacancy must live in the county but outside of Darlington.

Candidates for the two other authorities may come from the town.

Monitoring officer Andrew North said: "While these posts are voluntary and unpaid, successful applicants will have the satisfaction of making an important contribution to public service standards in County Durham and Darlington."

Travelling and subsistence allowances will be paid for attending meetings, and training will be given.

Applicants should write to the director of corporate and legal services, Durham County Council, County Hall, Durham, DH1 5UL, or telephone 0191-383 3482 for information and an application form.

Completed applications should be returned by Friday, March 22.