NOMINATIONS are now being accepted for people to represent their community council ahead of potential elections.

Candidates are being encouraged to put themselves forward to make a positive difference to where they live.

Inverclyde has 11 community councils: Gourock; Greenock Central; Greenock East; Greenock Southwest; Greenock West and Cardwell Bay; Holefarm and Cowdenknowes; Inverkip and Wemyss Bay; Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village; Larkfield, Braeside and Branchton; Port Glasgow East; and Port Glasgow West.

A minimum of five community councillors are needed for each to be able to legally form and up to a maximum of between eight and 11, depending on the area and size of the population.

If there are more candidates than there are seats available in any of the areas, an election will be held.

Community councils are the third tier of government, bridging the gap between communities, council and national governments.

They play an important role in towns and villages across Scotland.

Candidates have until February 7 at 4pm to put in their nomination.

To submit one see www.inverclyde.gov.uk/ccelection.