BURY Council is to take a tough stance on the problem of rent arrears among its tenants this summer.

In July 70 people appeared in court for persistent non-payment, and this month 12 tenants face eviction for rent arrears.

The council is launching a series of high profile information posters as part of their summer-long campaign.

Cllr Mike Connolly said: "We have made it clear that we do not want to take action against anybody who may be experiencing genuine difficulty in meeting their rent payments.

"The individuals we are determined to crack down on are those people who quite simply refuse to pay."

Last year the council evicted 55 tenants from their homes because of rent arrears.

Tenants who want support should speak to the tenancy management team on 0161 253 7052, or the confidential Housing Advice Service on 0161 253 7557.