A SUPPORT service to help private tenants is to be extended across the Tees Valley.

The Hartlepool Floating Support Service, established by the Endeavour Housing Association and Hartlepool Borough Council, has been hailed a success. A similar scheme will now operate across the Tees Valley from Darlington to Redcar.

"The service is preventing homelessness and the breakdown of tenancies and families by providing ongoing support," said Endeavour's supported housing manager, Steve Amos.

At the launch of the original project, Margaret Sutheran was recruited as a support worker to help develop the service.

She said: "Over the time that the service has been in place, there have been some very positive stories of how people have developed through receiving support."

The service has been recognised by the Prime Minister's homeless unit.