RESIDENTS in east Durham are to be given the chance to have a voice in their community.

Easington District Council wants people to have a say on how local problems should be tackled.

They are invited to attend a conference called Your Community Your Call, at the Glebe Centre, Murton, on Wednesday, October 6. It will highlight the schemes which have been put into place through a number of partnerships.

With police, fire brigade, Easington Primary Care Trust and other groups, local people will be given the opportunity to respond to proposals and to help shape them.

There will be an electronic system for people to vote for their preferences.

The all-day event, which will include lunch, is free for residents and businesses from the district.

A council spokeswoman said: "The conference is only half the story. We will also be going out into the community during October to demonstrate great partnerships in action.

"The police, fire brigade, street wardens, graffiti blasters, litter pickers and our recycling teams will be blitzing communities over a couple of days to demonstrate our determination to improve the environment for residents.''

To book a place, call the council on 0191-527 0501, extension 2293.