RESIDENTS in Selby have been urged to have their say in shaping the future of policing in North Yorkshire.

Under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill, the current North Yorkshire Police Authority (NYPA) will be replaced by a Police and Crime Commissioner in May next year.

The commissioner will be a directly elected individual with the task of holding the Chief Constable to account, and make sure police in Selby, York and North Yorkshire are run efficiently and effectively.

Next month, the NYPA will hold a number of focus groups around the region to take advice on how the public want the PCC to liaise with them, which will be open to all residents of North Yorkshire.

Topics the forums will include the commissioner’s duty to consult with the public, potential use of social networking sites and other communications, and ideas for advertising and community events.

The forums will be held throughout September and October, at the following locations, and the public can attend any one group that is convenient rather than just the one that is closest.

• Thursday, September 8, Evolution Centre, Northallerton, 2pm to 4.30pm.

• Thursday, September 29, Poppleton Centre, York, 7pm to 9.30pm.

• Wednesday, October 5, Selby Community Centre, 10am to 12.30pm.

A police spokesman said all comments from the meetings would assist the development of the role of the new commissioner, and help improve police accountability.

To get involved and book a place at any of the meetings, visit nypa.gov.uk/getinvolved and complete the online form before August 25.