A BENEFITS rights service for people in County Durham is set for a record year.

The service, run by Durham County Council, expects to have attended more than 1,000 appeal hearings for social security claims by the end of the year.

This compares with just above 900 last year and is likely to generate more than £1m in lost benefits.

Scott McInally, the council's welfare rights team leader, said: "We represent people in County Durham who have had their claims rejected or their benefit reduced or removed.

"We are independent of all agencies who administer benefits and offer a free service.

"If people take our advice, we guarantee to be at the tribunal to support them making their appeal.''

Government figures show that people who are represented at appeal hearings have a 70 per cent chance of success.

That compares with 50 per cent if they are not represented.

Those who do not attend their appeal and ask for a paper hearing have a success rate of only 18 per cent.

Councillor John Davies, the council's cabinet member for community development, said: "I would encourage anyone living in the county with a benefit problem to contact our welfare rights officers who play an important role in ensuring social inclusion.''

Anyone needing advice should contact the welfare rights team on Durham and Chester-le-Street, 0191-383 6081; Easington, 0191-518 2598; or Derwentside, (01207) 291535.