RESIDENTS are being given the chance to join forces with police and councillors to shape the future of their community.

The Southfield Community Council will hold its first meeting in Middlesbrough next week, and people from the area are being encouraged to ensure the multi-agency initiative is a success.

The community council, funded by Middlesbrough Borough Council, aims to improve the quality of life in Southfield and encourage community spirit and involvement.

Councillor Barry Coppinger said: "Southfield is a very long-established town centre community, but it is also very varied and it is changing.

"It is probably unique in Teesside with its mix, including a substantial ethnic minority population, students, owner occupiers and tenant, together with significant major employers.

"Meeting the needs of such a lively area is a considerable challenge, but we hope that local people will grasp the opportunity to use the Community Council to represent their views and help to improve their quality of life."

Teesside University has pledged its support to the initiative, as has Endeavour Housing, which provides many of the homes in the area.

Coun Coppinger said: "As ward councillors, we intend to be heavily involved, but in the end it can only work if local people are prepared to recognise the chance to shape the future of the areas and take up that challenge."

The first meeting will take place at 7pm next Wednesday in Teesside University's Europa Building, in Southfield Road.