AN insurance scheme is being introduced for council tenants in Durham City.

The scheme is a partnership between Royal Sun Alliance, Marsh UK and the Northern Consortium of Housing Authorities, of which the city council is a founder member.

Before going ahead with the initiative, the council consulted tenants.

The results showed that half of those who returned questionnaires had no contents insurance and welcomed the scheme's introduction.

Brian Spears, corporate director of community services at Durham City Council, said: "Some tenants have been put off insurance cover because companies ask for direct debit.

"If you have no bank account, this is difficult to organise. Our scheme is collected with the rent."

For more information about the scheme, which starts in February, call Stuart Kell at the city council on 0191-301 8438.

Proposal forms are available from area housing offices at Meadowfield or Claypath.