MEMBERS of residents' associations from across South Tyneside had their hard work recognised at a presentation ceremony.
South Tyneside Homes (STH) presented all 13 of the associations in the borough with certificates in honour of their efforts to improve their community.
The event, the first of its kind, was held at the Customs House, Mill Dam, South Shields, and w
as also a chance for members to raise any concerns to officials from the STH board.
Ken Mitchell, chairman of Harton Moor Residents' Association, felt the meeting had gone well.
He said: "It's been a really positive meeting. It's the first step in getting all of the associations to work together. I know we work individually in our own communities but we do need to come together at times and it's important to know who to get in touch with.
"In the past this hasn't always been the case but hopefully with meetings like this, we can meet up regularly, maintain contact and work together in moving forward to achieve better community.
"It has been a useful way to get any issues across and it feels as though we are being heard." Isobel Riley, chairwoman of STH, said it was vital to highlight the good work by residents.
She added: "We wanted to let the members know that we do appreciate the invaluable work they put in. It is all unpaid, which makes it even more significant.
"I'm extremely pleased with the turnout and hope we've shown the residents that we are here to listen and act upon feedback given to us.
"What we are hoping to achieve is to get more and more of the residents turning up to meetings like this.
"Gone are the days of one size fits all, we know that doesn't work. We hope to be able to help in any way we can.
"If residents want to meet more regularly, then we will certainly make steps to accommodate them."
