PEOPLE are being urged to become school governors in a bid to address a major shortfall.

East Sussex County Council is calling on residents and businesses to take up voluntary leadership posts in schools across the county.

“There are so many benefits to becoming a school governor,” said education chief Councillor Bob Standley.

“As well as contributing to the future of young people and giving something back to your community, taking up this voluntary role will help you develop skills that could help boost your career.”

The county council will host an event at Flackley Ash Hotel in Peasmarsh, near Rye, on March 5 so residents can learn more about being a school governor.

“Anyone with five to eight hours a month to spare can apply to become a school governor,” a spokesman said.

“With employers increasingly recognising the value of staff taking up the role, many now offer time off for staff to perform their duties.”

Places can be booked at bit.ly/2UMzVsd.