A COUNCIL is seeking Government cash to employ neighbourhood wardens.

Gateshead Borough Council has put in a bid for Home Office funding to pay for four wardens, who would be based in the Leam area.

They would keep an eye on empty properties, report any repairs needed, give residents advice and information, and warn police of anything suspicious happening.

The Leam area was selected to have wardens after consultations with a number of residents and the police.

Early this year, the council decided to appoint wardens to work on estates in the Deckham and High Fell wards.

"The wardens would carry out patrols and report on maintenance issues as well as providing a community safety role, " said ward councillor Jim Turnbull.

"I do hope that the bid succeeds as it could contribute enormously to improving the quality of life for many people in my ward.