Enthusiastic people with an interest in angling, recreation and the environment are being urged to make a difference by advising the Environment Agency in Yorkshire and the North East.

Officers are looking for new members to join the Environment Agency’s  Regional Fisheries, Ecology and Recreation Advisory Committee (RFERAC).

The committee provides a link between the Environment Agency, and people who use the region’s waters.

It meets three times a year during office hours, and in various locations around the region including Newcastle, York and Leeds.

Committee chairman David Stewart said: “The committee has a powerful voice that is listened to and acted upon at a local, regional and national level. If you share our passion for the environment and wish to make a real difference to the quality of life in Yorkshire and the North East, this is a place you can really help.

“Membership promises the chance to fulfil an important and fascinating role, advising and monitoring the leading public body that is responsible for protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales.”

Committee members are not given a salary, but travel and other expenses for financial loss and childcare allowance are paid.

An application pack can be obtained from Brian Marley by calling 0191 203 4049 or sending an e-mail to brian.marley@environment-agency.gov.uk. The closing date for applications is 17 April 2009.

An informal selection evening will be held on 20 May 2009.