A TOWN council struck by controversy is looking for new councillors to join its ranks.

Ferndown Town Council has lost two members in the last year - as well as passing a vote of no confidence in its mayor - and wants to create interest in the positions before the local elections on May 3.

The town council is offering a workshop in the King George V Pavilion at the King George V playing fields in Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, next Tuesday at 7pm.

There will be a presentation to explain the role of the councillor in local democracy and why everyone should vote on election day.

Deputy Mayor Cllr Roberta Lovett said she believed such an event was worthwhile, as it gave people the chance to meet the deputy clerk, to find out about the role - and even to find where the council offices were.

"There are a lot of people who may want to become a councillor but are not sure how to come forward and feel it's quite a big step to take," she said.

"This is a nice way of meeting people. They can talk to councillors, ask questions about what it's like being a councillor, and what committees there are."

Cllr Lovett said the number of vacancies was not known yet, as each councillor would decide whether to stand again.

She declined to comment on the turbulence that has beset the council in recent months.

Cllr Jeff Reece resigned in December after being one of three councillors to walk out of a stormy extraordinary meeting, called after some members attended events without the express permission of the council. John White has also resigned from his post.

Members have also asked their Mayor, Liz Stevens, to step down from her position.

Ferndown Town Council is the largest town council in East Dorset.

Deputy town clerk Paul Falconbridge said: "My message is simple - come along, get involved and find out more."

l For more information, contact Mr Falconbridge at Ferndown Town Council, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, on 01202 892249 or email ferndowntc@ btconnect.com.