WEST Somerset Council is seeking residents' views on pending tough financial decisions. 

A new consultation is asking local people to choose their top three priorities from a list of 12 services and also to rank the three they consider least important.

Service areas under the spotlight range from economic development and tourism to litter collection and community safety.

Kate Kravis, lead member for finance and resource, said: "Like councils across the country, we are facing further cuts to our budgets and some hard decisions have to be made. 

"It is important to us that as many local people as possible get involved so that we have a clear idea of what local people think the area's priorities should be."

Residents are also being asked what action the council should take to protect or improve services, and whether they would consider a rise in Council Tax to achieve this.

Cllr Dave Westcott, lead member for community, said: "By responding to the consultation, the community can help us refresh our corporate priorities to set the agenda for the foreseeable future. 

"Budget cuts affect everyone so it is vital that people take this opportunity to have their say."

Copies of the consultation, which closes on July 31, are available at the council's headquarters in Killick Way, Williton, or at its customer centre in Summerland Road, Minehead. 

The survey can also be completed online at http://www.westsomersetsays.com">www.westsomersetsays.com.