A COUNCIL has brought on board its very own Handy Andy to help people with odd jobs around their homes.

Stockton Borough Council has joined forces with Age Concern Teesside and Transmore Van Hire to help people who cannot carry out their own household repairs.

Starting today those helped by the council's handyman or woman will only have to pay for the materials, all labour costs will be met by Social Services. Jobs which the scheme covers include changing light bulbs, fitting tap washers and replacing broken windows.

There are potentially 2,000 people in the area who could take advantage of the scheme directly as will district nurse, home carers and social workers.

Age Concern Teesside has provided all the tools while Transmore Van Hire yesterday handed a fully taxed and serviced vehicle to the scheme.

Richard Webb, Stockton council's assistant director of social services said: "This new scheme will not only help to prevent accidents in the home but I hope will also promote a sense of safety and well-being for the people we serve."