THE importance of democracy will be the focus next week as Redditch folk are invited to take a closer look at the workings of their council.

National Local Democracy Week is being marked with events arranged by Redditch Council.

On Monday, councillors and officers will be available to hear people's views and answer questions in Redditch Market.

Tuesday will see events laid on for young people organised by the Youth House, in Smallwood, with the highlight of Wednesday being a look behind the scenes at Redditch Town Hall.

The tour will start from reception at 2.15pm and there will be a chance to talk to Council leader Albert Wharrad and borough director Chris Smith.

Anyone wanting to take part in the town hall tour should call the communications team on 534007 for bookings.

On Friday it will be time for council managers to get their hands dirty as they join the refuse team for a litter pick.

That's not to mention the Where's Winnie? competition marking the first birthday of the council's website, Winnie being its mascot.

Clues will be placed in the Advertiser and on the website itself at www.redditchbc.gov.uk The clues will lead to a toy spider hidden somewhere in the town centre. Whoever finds the spider wins a prize.