COUNCIL chiefs are planning to name and shame rent dodgers.

More than 20 people have been taken to court by Bury Housing Services in the last two weeks over their rent arrears.

But bosses are intent on stepping up their pursuit of non-paying tenants and former tenants.

Councillor Mike Connolly, executive member for health, housing and social services, said: "We have been taking legal action in order to obtain arrears owed and, until now, we have not made it a high profile issue. However, it is our intention in the future to publicise the names of those who have court orders made against them."

More than 70 possession orders have been granted so far this year, and Bury's Housing Services say they have reduced the arrears since the start of the year to the tune of £100,000.

The crackdown comes in the wake of a critical report by the Government's Best Value Inspection team which revealed rent arrears had spiralled to £2.3m.

Councillor Connolly said: "We do not want to see anyone thrown out of their homes. However, we will not tolerate a situation where people refuse to pay and then expect to get away with it. Our staff are only too happy to work with tenants who have financial difficulties, but those who simply won't pay can expect little sympathy."

The results of the latest 21 cases, which included the payment of £120 court costs, were:

Three outright possession and repayment of arrears orders.

Sixteen possession orders, suspended on payment of weekly rent plus an agreed amount off the arrears.

Two money judgements for arrears to be paid.