POSTAL service users in the North will be formally represented for the first time by a new consumer council.

Postwatch Northern England, an independent, government-appointed group, will represent users of all postal services in Northumberland, Yorkshire, Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester north Lincolnshire and north Cheshire.

Its 12 members will work under the chairmanship of Judith Donovan, who has 25 years' experience in direct mail and marketing.

Ms Donovan said: "The launch of Postwatch Northern England will herald a new era in consumer representation and support.

"As it is the region with the largest volume of population, and has an extremely diverse range of business sectors and cities, market towns and rural areas, we will be focusing on the issues that affect all types of consumers in all types of locations."

The team will deal with written complaints and respond to inquiries on 08456 013 265.