AN elders congress could soon become a feature of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

At a full meeting of the council last Thursday, Coun Chris Abbot, from the Liberal Democrat party, put forward the suggestion of an elders congress.

His proposal would involve encouraging people over the age of 50 to become more involved in their local communities and play a part in the decision-making process while promoting the interests of older people.

All of this would be done with support and encouragement from the council.

He said after the meeting that the council promised to take the proposals on board and look into the issue as part of a best value review, which is due to start soon.

He said: "I am delighted that the council has accepted the proposal and is going to seriously consider providing our older residents with more opportunity to participate in the decisions that affect them.