COUNCIL chiefs have welcomed the results of a study into the quality of life for people living in Hambleton.

More than 1,500 residents were questioned as part of a five-month survey to help shape the future of district council-run services.

While 93 per cent said Hambleton was "a good place to live", many also called for council tax reductions, improved road maintenance and better provision for the elderly.

Council leader June Imeson said: "This market research was essentially a health check for the district to find out just what affects people's quality of life and what they think of the council.

"Various key issues have been raised and we will be looking at them over the coming months. We wanted to know what the public feel is important for Hambleton to help us determine the council's future aims, objectives and service priorities."

Almost 70 per cent said they were happy with the way the council was run and the facilities it provides.

Coun Imeson added: "While we are delighted with the very positive outcome of this market research, we are certainly not complacent.

"We will be studying the results over the coming months and acting upon them wherever possible."

Teams of researchers interviewed 800 people on the streets, and another 800 in their homes, during the exercise.