RUNCORN tenants were invited to an afternoon tea to talk about their neighbourhood and new homes.

Riverside bought 66 properties from Sanctuary Housing on Cotton Lane, Halton Lodge, earlier this year.

The housing association wanted to give residents a chance to meet each other and discuss any concerns.

Tenants enjoyed tea and scones whilst children were entertained with face painting and balloon modelling.

Families were able to have a go on a bicycle powered smoothie maker.

Lorna Cotterill, Riverside community engagement officer, said: “It was great to meet with our new tenants to discuss planned improvements. “We found out that some people are concerned about the nearby woods being hotspots for anti-social behaviour.

“We are already planning some environmental improvements to the area to start this summer but wanted to hear more directly from Cotton Lane residents.”

Riverside’s landscaping contractor Assist will start work at the beginning of August.

They will be carrying out site clear ups, grass cutting, strimming, removing fly tipping, moss clearance, hedge removal, pruning and edging lawned areas.

Tree surveys will also be carried out in the woods to make the area safer.