EAST Durham council tenants have the chance to become directors of an organisation running 11,000 homes.

Easington District Council residents will be asked if they support the creation of an Arms Length Management Organisation (ALMO) to manage, repair and improve their homes.

If they agree, the move could lead to extra investment of more than £117m.

Under the ALMO, the council would retain ownership of its housing but set up a company to manage it.

If the plan wins support, five tenants will be invited to join five councillors and five independent members on a management board.

Michael Grime, chairman of the District of Easington's Tenants and Residents' Federation, which is leading the search, said: "This represents an exciting opportunity for any tenant to get involved in the development of the new organisation designed to deliver better homes and services for tenants in the district.''

Board members' expenses will be reimbursed and full training offered. Further information is available on Freephone 0800 0852207.