Parish councils are often overshadowed by the larger authorities which hold the weight of political power.

However, their role is no less important.

Parish councils provide a vital service to communities as a forum for public debate.

They are also a place to air concerns on anything from crime to the general maintenance of public spaces which are so important to people's quality of life.

While most services are provided by larger local authorities and the police, these organisations rely on the parish councils keeping their ears to the ground.

If this tier of local government were removed, residents would soon realise what they had lost.

Parish councils make sure, on a local level, everybody is doing their job well. From refuse collection to dealing with planning applications, district councils are soon told if they are not delivering.

Indeed, one person's objection to a planning application may not carry much weight but, if a whole parish objects, it could make the difference.

Sitting on a parish council can also be a bit of a thankless task.

So remember not only to vote on May 1 but also give councillors a big thank you.

They deserve it.