A NEW guide to becoming an elected official has been produced by the city council in an attempt to make local politics more appealing.

Bosses hope the guide will answer all the important questions about life as a councillor.

It describes how people stand for election and, if they win, how they work with the public by corresponding with them and attending council meetings. Local elections are coming up in May and anyone wanting to run as a councillor can try their hand.

Every local political party will receive copies of the guide, as well as libraries and council buildings.

The guide makes the realities of elected life clear - late- night phone calls, plenty of meetings, but emphasises the important nature of it.

Worcester City Council leader Coun Stephen Inman said: "This guide is for anyone who expresses an interest in getting involved.

"Some people think the council runs itself, but we always need people to come forward. It answers all the basic questions people have and opens up politics to people who want to get involved but need to know more.

"It isn't about party politics. There is no reason why people who aren't political shouldn't consider standing. People can come forward as Conservatives, Labour members, Liberal Democrats or even independents, for example. It is hard work but all councillors make a difference to their communities.

"Some current councillors have been re-elected two of three times and are now well into double figures, while some others seek election once and only serve one term, which is four years."

Councillor Lucy Hodgson said: "Local government is about representing the needs and interests of both the electorate and the city.

"It's not just about politicians in ivory towers making grand sweeping judgements on the people below.

"All of us recognise Worcester will be best served by a council that reflects its community so we want to get the message out that councillors come from all walks of life."