AN ELECTED mayor for Ryedale could play a major role in taking the district forward, believes former town mayor of Pickering and management consultant Bill McCall.

Speaking on the move by Ryedale District Council to publish a public notice to give residents the chance to petition for a mayor, Mr McCall said: "I think a mayor with a team would be more responsible and more accountable to the people."

He has called for local organisations to get involved and express their views.

"The case has got to be put for an elected mayor. The recent issue over parking has proved to be a very emotive one and people reacted in droves to the council's proposals."

Mr McCall added: "Something has got to be done about local government - we have got to have the right people running our councils. Many get elected because of their politics."

He said project teams should be set up involving the public. "They should be part of the decision-making process on issues in Ryedale."

A total of 2,007 people would need to sign a petition requesting a referendum on the issue in the coming year.

Coun Alan Farnaby, leader of Ryedale District Council, said: "We have to do this but I personally think an elected mayor would not be suitable for an area such as Ryedale."

Updated: 09:52 Thursday, March 14, 2002