JUST months after Martlesham parish council managed to double its number of women councillors - the search is on once more.But as the number did only increase from one to two in the first place, clerk Lynne Lodge is keen to encourage more members of the fairer sex to join.

JUST months after Martlesham parish council managed to double its number of women councillors - the search is on once more.

But as the number did only increase from one to two in the first place, clerk Lynne Lodge is keen to encourage more members of the fairer sex to join.

Now another vacancy has arisen and the number is back down to one woman among 13 men, after councillor Deborah Benton resigned.

Mrs Lodge said: "Women are very under-represented at the moment on the council.

"No-one can choose who stands for election, but it would be nice to think that the council would have representatives from across the spectrum of residents, aged 21 and over.

"It helps when you have a variety of background and age to put across what it is that people in the parish want."

Also new to the council is John Nayler from Waldringfield Road, who replaces councillor Peter Izzard.

Residents in Martlesham have until March 27, to call for an election if they feel it is needed.

Ten people have to write to Suffolk Coastal with the request.

If no election is held, a candidate will then be co-opted instead.

Mrs Lodge said: "Anyone who is interested just needs to get in contact with the parish council.

"We can then talk to them about what they would need to do."

For further information contact Lynne Lodge on 01473 612632.