AN award-winning council is dangerously close to being shut down.

Wakes Colne Parish Council has seen the number of volunteer councillors fall.

To operate at full capacity, the council need around six councillors but currently only has three.

Without enough members, the parish council could be dissolved within the next two months.

A year ago the council received the National Quality Gold Award in recognition of the way it operates.

The award was only achieved by 40 councils across the whole country, and just six in Essex.

The council has now launched an appeal for residents to come forward.

Chairman Stephen Scrase, said: “The job of a councillor is enjoyable, supportive of fellow villagers and especially satisfying when achievements are fulfilled.

“Our council is well run and supported by our parish clerk.

“I urge our villagers to consider the opportunity and step up to the mark.”

The council is also keen to attract younger councillors and is urging anyone over the age of 18 to apply, no matter their experience.

A Colchester Council spokesman said: “We have been liaising with Wakes Colne Parish Council to try to keep it going in the event it is unable to maintain a quorate number of councillors.

“No power would transfer to Colchester Council from the parish council, if it was unable to function.

“Instead, if at least three councillors cannot be found to serve on the parish council, Colchester Council would consider using its reserve powers to appoint persons to act as councillors to the parish council to ensure it can continue to function until others were willing to take on the role.”

For more information, visit e-voice.org.uk/wakescolne.