A citizens' panel which gives residents a say in local affairs has been launched in Sunderland.

The panel, called Community Spirit, has been set up by the city council and has attracted 1,000 members.

However, the council hopes to have a panel of 20,000 people and has extended the deadline for people to register their interest.

The panel will receive a questionnaire three or four times a year covering subjects including crime, health, education and the environment.

Sarah Reed, head of the council's Best Value team, said: "We have been delighted with the response so far and in the first two weeks attracted almost 1,000 residents to the panel.

"We do, however, want to keep on going and by extending the deadline date hope to boost this figure even higher.

"We are aware that many people may have mislaid their application form, but still wish to join and we want to make sure that we give them every possible chance to have their say on things that matter to the city.''