A 24-HOUR helpline for Housing Hartlepool tenants has been hailed as a success.

The social landlord is working in partnership with information technology company Northgate to provide a comprehensive ICT service to report repairs.

Officals say the service has enabled a quick turnaround in solving repair problems and has been given the thumbs-up by residents.

One rang to congratulate the company on the new repairs service, saying he was "very impressed" with the help that he had received.

Another resident was pleased to be offered an appointment specifying when the gas fitter was due call at her home.

Catherine Purdy, chief executive of Housing Hartlepool, said: "This system ensures that we can focus our resources where they are needed most, and empowers staff to deliver excellence, continually improve and provide services that are valued by the local community."