RICHMONDSHIRE residents are happier than most with their local council - but not as happy as they used to be.

Of the 5,000 people questioned in a survey, 59 per cent were satisfied with the district council's overall performance and services.

This was above the national average of 55 per cent, but 16 per cent down on the figure for 2000-01.

Councillor John Blackie, leader of the council, said: "We are very pleased with the results of the survey, which shows a good level of satisfaction with our services.

"It is also gratifying that we are performing better than average, especially in a climate where satisfaction with local government services in general has plummeted in recent years."

Coun Blackie blamed a rise in residents' expectation for lower levels of overall satisfaction, compared with three years ago. He said: "Customers expectations have risen - there's nothing wrong with that. We must try to meet those expectations as best we can."

All councils in the country were asked to carry out a satisfaction survey by the Government.