PRIVATE landlords have joined forces with the police to launch an initiative to improve communities by clamping down on problem tenants.

Members of Sedgefield and Newton Aycliffe Landlords Association meet regularly with Shildon police to swap information.

The meetings have followed several incidents last year when problem tenants in Shildon were leaving homes in a run-down state and causing concern to neighbours through anti-social behaviour.

PC Mandy Payne from Shildon police said the meetings with private landlords were having a positive effect on the community.

She said: "What people do not realise is that it is difficult for private landlords because we are still very limited on what information we can share with them because of the Data Protection Act.

"These meetings are allowing them to share information and experiences with each other so that they can make a more informed choice when they chose their tenants."

PC Payne said the landlords wanted to make the right choice and the informal arrangements now in place are helping to prepare people for new legislation, which will see tighter laws brought in to monitor private rented accommodation.

She said: "I went along to a meeting in February to explain what the new regulations would mean and I got a very positive response.

"Members of the association are anxious to show a united front with the police and have now invited me on joint visits with tenants in some cases before letting out the houses."

PC Payne said that she hoped that the progress would continue and more local beat officers would get involved so that landlords felt they had someone to go to for help.

About 40 private landlords attend the monthly meeting at The Cumby Arms, Heighington, but Sue Proudfoot, who is a member, said she hoped more landlords would be encouraged to join.

She said: "We want as many landlords to come along as possible because it is enabling us to check our tenants so that we are not upsetting the rest of the neighbours.

"We are working very closely with the police and Sedgefield Borough Council and it is so much better."