A GROUP of Hereford pensioners unhappy at the service of their housing provider have ditched national contractors for county ones.

The 18 residents at Guardian Court, off Ferrers Street, became so disappointed that repairs were being carried out by workers travelling from Essex and South Wales that they decided to take action.

Led by residents Len Gale and Gordon Stewart a ‘right to manage’ group was established which then teamed up with Herefordshire Council contractor Amey to provide grounds and building maintenance along with cleaning services.

Residents, who are all leaseholders, approved the idea and are now benefitting from lower service charges after ditching their housing association and setting up their own replacement company.

Mr Gale, who is 71, said he believes the idea to be a county first.

“We are chuffed to bits with Amey and the whole idea in general,” said Len.

“We believe this unique Herefordshire model meets our needs and we are benefiting from a friendly, 24- hour service which is only a phone call away.”

He said the previous housing association, Anchor Housing, accepted the residents’ decision to pull out of its control under leaseholder legislation.

Under the changes, all routine property repairs and maintenance are being carried out by tradesmen in the county.

Other groups helping them include Herefordshire Mind and Herefordshire Lifestyles.

Len, who has lived at Guardian Court for eight years, said the scheme was thought up by disgruntled residents after contracters were sent from Barry in South Wales to clean the windows, from Essex to fix an alarm system and from Bristol to deal with the drains.

Mark Thomas, account director with Amey, said: “We have worked with the residents of Guardian Court to provide a range of services to meet their needs.

“Amey is looking forward to working with the residents over the coming months and years.”