ANOTHER ten council tenants have been evicted in the continuing clampdown on rent arrears.

Housing bosses also secured 14 court orders for non-payment of rent in October, and a further 32 tenants are being taken to court this month.

Councillor Ray Watts, executive member for regeneration and housing, said the council was determined to act against tenants in the borough who refused to pay.

"The more rent we fail to collect, the fewer repairs and improvements can be done for the majority who pay on time," he said.

"Any tenant who will not pay will be dealt with quickly and taken to court. As the latest figures show, the threat of eviction is real and we will not hesitate to act where we have to."

Coun Watts said that the council would try to help tenants in genuine financial difficulty, and advised them to contact their tenancy management officer on 253 7052.

He also suggested tenants speak to the Housing Advice Centre on 253 7557 for free, confidential and impartial advice.

"It has got to make more sense than leaving matters until they end in a court appearance and the possible loss of your home," he said.

The council has taken a hard line on non-payers this year, securing scores of evictions and court orders.

It follows a scathing report by Best Value inspectors, who gave the rent collection service its lowest "no stars" grading.