COUNCIL tenants in Hyndburn may soon be able to stand for a seat on a group to have a say on the way housing is run.

Hyndburn Council is set to transfer its housing stock to private North West company, Contour Housing Group.

And tenants will be elected onto a proposed 'shadow' board, which will help run Hyndburn Homes' 3,500 houses if it goes ahead. But volunteers wanting to take part must have a specialist knowledge in business, finance or the law.

Ken Bury, director of Hyndburn Homes, said: "Tenants will have a much bigger role in the running of the homes if tenants give the go ahead to transfer.

"If you are committed to tenant involvement in the housing service and you can spare a few hours a month, then please think about standing for election to the board."

If tenants vote yes to the transfer in a secret ballot next year, the board will be consulted on work the housing partnership needs to carry out.

Along with the six chosen tenants, the board will have five independent members, and four local councillors.

The election will be in Accrington Town Hall on Tuesday, October 5. Candidates will give a brief speech before a secret ballot. The six candidates who get the most votes will be elected.

Tenants who wish to vote in the election must register by Friday, September 10, using forms being sent out to council homes.

Advice on how to take part in the election or stand for a board place is available from 0800 146702.