Troon's Laura Kerr is asking members of the community to get involved in a scheme where they can make their voice heard on how local decisions are made.

The South Ayrshire 1000 is, as the name suggests, a panel of 1000 people who undertake to complete one survey in a two year period, aimed at making their views, opinions and ideas known to the council.

Laura has been a member of the South Ayrshire 1000 for many years and has recommended that locals join up. The 28-year-old said: "I've been a panel member for several years and believe it is vital for people to make their views and ideas known.

"I'm proud to be making a contribution and would urge anyone with an interest in seeing real change delivered in the community to become a member of the South Ayrshire 1000."

There are options to take a more active approach, such as additional survey work, or attending meetings with other like-minded South Ayrshire 1000 members, but the minimum commitment is one survey in a two-year period.

Membership of the South Ayrshire 1000 is currently at 850 people and the Council is particularly interested in applications from younger residents aged 16 and over, young families and older residents, to ensure a broad spectrum of people are properly represented.

If the recruitment exceeds 1000, then applicant's details are kept on file, because panel members retire on a rolling three year basis. So there's a good chance you will get your opportunity to become an active member.

Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Bill McIntosh, said: "Communities are constantly evolving and local needs are always evolving, so one of the best ways for us to keep pace with and respond to those changes is to listen to and act on the wishes of local people. This is particularly important at a time when our resources are under severe pressure.

"What you say will have a direct bearing on our community planning and will impact on almost every area of Council operations, so it's vital your voice is heard.

You can apply online at by clicking here or write, with your name, address and contact telephone number to: David Sherlock, SA 1000, South Ayrshire Council, County Buildings, Ayr, KA7 1DR.

Or, if you prefer, email your details, marked "SA1000" to: david.sherlock@south-ayrshire.gov.uk