Arts minded big-hitters are needed to help form a new influential arts body in the North West.

North West Arts Board has made a plea for major figures in the arts, local government, business and other sectors in Cumbria to come forward to help make up the Council for the Arts in the North West.

The new body will provide co-ordination, overview and leadership in the region's arts and help distribute more than £500 million of public money and lottery grants.

North West Arts Board regional executive director Michael Eakin said: "North West Arts Board has a proud history of leading growth of the arts in our region over many years.

We are now moving into an exciting new phase in our history as the Regional Council of a new national arts funding and development agency."

The deadline for application is May 17 and information packs are available on 0161 827 9221.