A SPECIAL warden is to be hired in the Buckskin area of Basingstoke to tackle issues including litter, graffiti, vandalism, abandoned cars and anti-social behaviour.

Kingfisher Housing Association, which will advertise the post from next week, will fund the Neighbourhood Liaison Officer with the assistance of a £10,000 Community Safety Grant from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

It is the first time Kingfisher has appointed such an officer, who will liaise with residents and interested agencies. The person will also carry out daily walkabouts of the estate, reporting repairs that are needed and getting rubbish and abandoned vehicles removed.

Stuart Edlington, Kingfisher's housing director, said: "Everyone believes that this key role of Neighbourhood Liaison Officer will have a positive impact on the quality of life for local residents. We hope the officer will be employed before the start of the summer holidays."

The idea was supported at a recent drop in session at the Ridgeway Community Centre, which was attended by more than 80 local residents and a number of interested agencies, including the housing association, the police and the borough council.

Kingfisher is also looking to set up a Buckskin Residents Group, which will work with the police, Kingfisher and community staff to discuss measures to help improve the issues that affect residents.

An inaugural meeting will take place at Holyrood Court, Sperrin Close, at 7pm on Thursday, June 6.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the group can call Ray Topley, Kingfisher's tenant participation officer, on 01256 302372.