MEETINGS will be held across Hartlepool this week to give residents and businesses a chance to say how well the local authority is performing.

It is part of an initiative by Hartlepool Borough Council to improve its consultation with people.

Councillor Iain Wright said: "The council was one of only 22 throughout the country to be ranked excellent following a recent audit commission inspection.

"However, the council must continue to strive to improve performance. It is important to ensure good inspection results mean services to the public are the best they possibly can be.

"A crucial part of this process is to listen to the views of local people."

At the meetings, Coun Wright will give a short presentation, and residents will be able to air their views.

The three neighbourhood forum meetings will start at 10am. They will take place at the West View Community Centre tomorrow, the Civic Centre on Thursday and Owton Manor Community Centre on Friday.