RESIDENTS have received £2.1m as part of a Government scheme to give them a real say in how their neighbourhood is being run.

Parkfield and Mill Lane, in Stockton, Teesside, is one of only 20 areas in the country to benefit from the initiative.

The area will receive the cash over the next three years to help it tackle crime, housing and education issues.

A neighbourhood manager, appointed by Stockton Borough Council, will begin work next month to coordinate the scheme.

The manager will report to a board of local people and groups, and will work closely with the council and other agencies to find ways to improve the neighbourhood.

The chairman of the Parkfield Residents' Group, Alex Bain, said: "This is great news and will make a real difference to us.

"It means local people and community groups can work together and be more effective in getting to grips with problems affecting our area.

"It means we will translate the views of residents into clear service agreements with agencies so everyone knows what is needed."

Neighbourhood management board chairman Philip Walker said: "People can already see the improvements.

"For example, the first project of £10,000 was used to tidy up the area by cleaning graffiti and fly posters, rubbish and dog waste."

The scheme will continue for seven years, with Government funding being reduced as local agencies increase their investment.