[Ken Moss]

Well, we're just about two months in now and the actual mechanics of being a councillor are giving me no end of satisfaction. What advice would I give to anyone wanting to try it? Where do I begin...

Getting phone calls and e-mails on a daily basis from residents in need of assistance and being able to sort them out within days is a priceless feeling. Several issues which have been going on for months and years are now well on the way to being resolved after a bit of digging and nagging and, although the money isn't brilliant, it gives me a tremendous sense of satisfaction knowing that you can make a difference without gargantuan effort.

Persistence is the key on certain issues, but anyone who tries throwing their weight around with HBC staff is asking for all they get. Local councillors are the on lowest political rung and it would pay for some members to bear that in mind if they want to get things done more quickly.

Be seen in public in your ward is essential, no one likes a faceless councillor who only pops up when it's time to grab votes. Go to the pubs and community group meetings, listen to residents, be prompt with your responses, don't give out false hopes or take credit for something you were only a part of.

It's all very simple stuff although hard work, but conversely it would actually be very easy for an elected councillor to do absolutely nothing if they wanted.