ALMOST 2,000 people are to be given a say in how a North Yorkshire council delivers its services to council house tenants.

The authority in Richmondshire is to form a new panel, which it hopes will encourage more public involvement in the decision-making process.

The new initiative is in addition to a housing forum, which allows tenants to meet housing chiefs face-to-face to discuss issues of concern.

"Consultation with tenants is seen as an important conerstone in our drive to improve housing service across the district,'' said the council's housing chairman, Councillor John Gill.

"That is because, if we are ever to meet the real needs of our tenants, we must gain more of an insight into what they want from us and what they see as the main priorities for future development.

"We very much hope this is an idea which will blossom as it develops, possibly leading to several panels representing tenants in different parts of the district. What is important now is to spread the word and encourage as many people as possible to look at the possible benefits of being involved," he added.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the new panel can contact Colin Dales by telephoning (01748) 829100.