A SERIES of meetings is being planned by North Yorkshire County Council to discuss issues which are vital to communities across the county.

The county council has to consult with the public about the budget for 2000-2001 and how it can best provide the kind of services which are needed for everyone.

Business groups, parishes and others who have an interest in the kind of services which the council provides will all be invited to seven meetings across North yorkshire.

Countywide groups such as North Yorkshire Health Authority, Fire and Rescue, Police and Probation will all be invited together with business organisations like the CBI, Chamber of Trade and the National Farmers' Union.

Jeremy Walker, chief executive, said: "We want to ensure that the kind of services we are providing are the services which are needed by the public and give good value for money.

"These will then be worked into our best value performance plan to determine our priorities for the years ahead and ensure that the county council provides the best quality services within its budget limitations."

Local county councillors will also be expected to attend the meetings which in the Craven area will be held at Skipton Girls' High School on January 10. It is due to run from 7pm to 9pm.

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