RESIDENTS across Derwentside are being asked for their opinions on the performance of their district council.

The local authority has launched a survey which will provide feedback on the level of satisfaction of residents with the services it provides.

The survey will go on until November 30, with questionnaires being posted to 5,000 randomly selected households.

Local governments are required by law to provide annual reporting on a set of national performance indicators and standards, with satisfaction surveys carried out every three years.

District council corporate administration and police director Gordon Elliott said: "As a council we performed well last time round. We have continued to place great emphasis on consulting widely and regularly with the public, to ensure we deliver the service improvements that local people have a right to expect.

He added: "It is important that everyone who gets the questionnaire completes and returns it, so that the government can assess how we are performing as a local authority."

As part of its commitment to consultation with residents, the district council manages a Derwentside Citizens' Panel, which any member of the community can join.

For details about the survey or about the citizens' panel contact Angela Harrington on (01207) 218430.