THE self-rule success of council tenants in Clayton-le-Moors has been praised by Hyndburn borough councillors.

Clayton-le-Moors estate management board is heading for an underspend of almost £16,000 on the £139,880 budget they were allocated for day-to-day and change of tenancy repairs.

The board is now looking at possible projects which could be carried out to enhance the area with the surplus funds.

Councillor Peter Britcliffe said: "I think they have done an excellent job.

"I have spoken to a lot of what I would call satisfied customers in Clayton over the last 12 months.

"They have managed to save almost £16,000, which is a tremendous achievement for these people who are amateurs and not paid for what they do.

"It is a tribute to their enthusiasm."

An expression of concern came from Councillor Jean Battle, who noted that rent arrears were not improving as well as the rest of the borough.

She told the housing services committee: "We have made a great improvement in the borough and it would be nice if the estate management board could match us on that."

Councillor Marilyn Brindle said arrears had dropped since the estate management board took over in August 1995.

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