A RECRUITMENT drive has been launched to encourage residents to have a regular say on housing matters.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council is spearheading the campaign to attract tenants on to one of four new District Advisory Panels (DAPs).

The DAPs, covering East Cleveland, Redcar, Grangetown and Eston, will comprise up to six tenants, as well as Councillor Barbara Bowater, the lead councillor for housing, and other councillors.

Four tenants will be chosen as the chairmen of each group, which will meet six times a year at a council venue.

The DAPs will advise the lead councillor on housing issues, and plans for environmental improvements, and monitor the performance of the housing service.

Eric Barton, the council's customer services manager, said: "Tenants will have every opportunity to comment on what is being discussed."

For more information on the scheme, ring 0800 169 7503.