NEW members are needed for the Cotswolds Conservation Board to help manage the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Three new members will be appointed by the Government's Secretary of State of the Environment, and will be instrumental in helping to conserve and enhance the AONB, together with promoting a greater awareness and enjoyment of its special qualities.

The board is keen to hear from applicants with an interest in sustainable tourism, health and wellbeing and from those with commercial acumen. Applications are also encouraged from people with disabilities, women, young people and members of ethnic minorities.

The appointments will run from April next year, for an initial period of up to three years.

The AONB includes much of West Oxfordshire, north of Burford, Witney and Woodstock, and the area from Chipping Norton to Edge Hill, north of Banbury.

The board's chairman, the Rev Jeff West, who lives in Charlbury and has been a Secretary of State appointee since 2004, said: “The Cotswolds AONB is one of the country’s most beautiful places and it's important that it stays that way.

"We know that the Cotswolds is good for both business and people, and provides many benefits for those who live, work and visit here. There is therefore a need to ensure that its future management reflects the needs of everyone and to make that happen, the board is encouraging people from all backgrounds and with a range of skills to apply.”

The closing date for receipt of applications is noon on Thursday next week.