Have you ever thought that you could do a better job than your local Councillor ?

Considering how unpopular pretty much all politicians are at the moment, it's quite likely you have thought you could do. What with people such as Esther Rantzen considering throwing their independent hats into the ring on a national level, maybe it's time that the rest of us thought about doing the same at the Town Hall ?

If this sounds like you, then now could be your chance to take the first step as there is to be a City council by-election for the Goldsmid area of Hove following the resignation of the Conservative councillor, Paul Lainchbury.

If you are over eighteen years of age, registered to vote within the City of Brighton and Hove, have lived or worked here for at least 12 months, can find ten people that are on the electoral register in the Goldsmid ward to put you forward, then there is a very good chance that you are eligible to stand in the election.

There could be many personal and practical reasons why you would not want to stand, but the criteria to be a candidate is easily met by many, so why not give it some serious thought ?

Should you wish to stand then your nomination must be in by noon on the 26th June 2009. Further details and application forms to become a candidate can be obtained from the Returning Officer at Brighton Town Hall, Bartholomew Square.

The by-election itself is due to take place on the 26th July 2009.