South Ayrshire Residents are being urged to have their say as nominations open for the community council by-elections.

Community councils are voluntary and set up and run by residents to represent their local area alongside politicians.

Members of the council are elected for three years and by-elections take place in years two and three to fill vacancies.

Councillor Douglas Campbell said: "I would urge anyone who wants to make a difference in their community to ensure they're nominated.

"You don't need to have a background or even an interest in politics, what you do need is a desire to become a voice for where you live.

"The depth of local knowledge displayed by our community councillors is truly staggering and they are always an important sounding board for the council.

"The by-election is your chance to join with like-minded people and have your say on important topics such as education and housing, so don't miss out."

Nomination forms must be returned by midnight on February 22.