CRAVEN residents interested in becoming a governor for Airedale Hospital are invited to one of two special events to find out what it involves.

This year public seats are available for those living in the Craven ward (including Addingham, Silsden and Steeton), Settle and Mid Craven (including Gargrave, Hellifield, Long Preston, Bentham, Ingleton and Clapham), Skipton (including Embsay, Grassington and Upper Wharfedale) and South Craven (including Cowling, Sutton in Craven and West Craven).

The elections will be held in next month and the first of the Everything You Need to Know sessions is being held in the hospital's Education Centre lounge on Monday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm and will be repeated on February 23, from 10.30am to 11.30am, in the same place.

The events will include information about the role of the governor, the election process and an opportunity to ask questions and meet some of the current governors. Tea and coffee will be provided.

Governors act as a link between the hospital board of directors and members of the public.

Michael Luger, chairman for Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Our governors often put themselves forward as they would like to put something back into their community. They play an important part in the future of our hospital.

“Their role is to make sure the non-executive directors account for the performance of the board by asking the right questions and considering information about how the trust is working. They also represent the interests of their local community and members so need to devote time to finding out what residents think.”

Paul Maskell is one of Airedale Hospital’s governors elected to make sure the voices of people in West Craven are heard.

He said: “I stood to be a governor as I believe it is important that we take responsibility for the services that we pay for through our taxes. The system of having a governing body allows the public to engage with the trust and if we want the best service available then we should make the effort to work with the hospital to achieve this to push for the best within the resources we have.

“The main requirement is enthusiasm and an open mind, not to have an agenda or be driven by personal experiences as you are acting for your members, not yourself. Don't be afraid to ask questions, it is better to learn than be confused or to misunderstand, it’s not always easy but it is very worthwhile.”

Call the membership office on 01535 294540 or e-mail members@anhst.nhs.uk to book a place or for more details.