TENANTS in east Durham who are facing rent arrears are being encouraged to seek help from two agencies.

People who have fallen behind with their payments are being invited to seek help from staff at East Durham Homes, which now manages Easington District Council's housing services.

Non-payment of rent can lead to eviction, and trained staff are now on hand to try to resolve debt problems quickly and easily.

Alternatively, tenants can talk to advisors at Easington and District Citizens Advice Bureau, which is on the fifth floor of Lee House, Peterlee Town Centre -telephone 0191-586 2639.

The bureau has operated in the district for more than 20 years and offers free, independent, impartial advice and assistance on a wide range of legal issues, including debt and rent arrears.

It also assists with welfare benefits, homlessness, consumer issues and relationship matters.

Geoffrey Proud, bureau manager, said: "We would invite anyone suffering from any of these problems to visit or telephone us.

"We hold a number of advice surgeries around the district and home visits can be arranged for people to attend one of these."

Tenants can speak to East Durham Homes in confidence at their housing office or by calling 0191-527 0501.