THREE deprived areas in the North-East have been chosen to pilot a Government initiative to improve poor neighbourhoods.

Stockton's Parkfield and Mill Lane area, on Teesside, the Stanley green corridor in Derwentside, and Easington's coastal area, will all receive money under the scheme.

Only 20 areas in the country are taking part in the Neighbourhood Management project.

Government money will be used to provide local teams to work with residents, the police and voluntary organisations to tailor services to local needs.

A manager will liaise with the community and report back to a board of local people and groups which will discuss how issues can be addressed.

Lord Falconer, Housing, Planning and Regeneration Minister, said: "We believe that a neighbourhood manager can play a crucial role in delivering neighbourhood solutions for neighbourhood problems."

Each area will receive up to £300,000 in its first year and up to £600,000 in the second and third years to support the management teams.

Sacha Bedding, of the Stockton International Family Centre, said: "Improving the coordination of services will make a huge difference to the quality of life of local people."

Yesterday, it was also announced that £260,000 is being given to the North-East to give computer access to people in deprived and rural areas. The money is part of a £3m national grant from the National Lottery New Opportunities Fund.