The present practice is that candidates are nominated from the floor at the town meeting and a vote is then taken by those present.

But feoffees chairman Ken Saunders said this process no longer adheres to the requirements oif the Charities Act 2006, nor the guidance received from the Charity Commissioners.

So in future all potential candidates will be required to declare themselves prior to the town meeting 'in order that they understand the duties, responsibilities and commitment that will be required of them and to ensure that they are eligible and competent persons to stand for election'.

In addition, candidates should also be able to demonstrate knowledge and experience drawn from business, a profession, local government or the voluntary sector.

Mr Saunders said: "We have been discussing this matter for three years and it has finally been agreed by the board of foeffees as we need to improve our governance."

Feoffees or trustees are elected for a period of four years. The appointments of senior and junior townwarden is for one year although custom has it, by the consent of the town meeting, that they can serve for two years in each post having first been elected junior townwarden.

Application forms will be available from the Town Estate office at 2 Park Lane, Melton, LE13 0PT or online at www.meltonmowbraytownestate.co.uk from Monday, September 1.

The closing date for applications is noon on Tuesday, September 9. Candidates will be invited for interview on September 17 and those who meet the criteria for eligibility can be proposed at the town meeting on Monday, October 6, for election by ballot.