SARSEN Housing Association, based in Devizes, has appointed Helen Hopgood to the new post of private sector leasing co-ordinator.

The private sector leasing scheme works by getting in touch with owners of empty properties and asking them to long-term lease the property to Sarsen. The rent is then paid by Sarsen directly to the homeowner.

The scheme is an ongoing strategy of many councils to reduce the number of homeless people living in bed and breakfast accommodation.

Ms Hopgood will be responsible for managing the tenants and arranging day-to-day repairs and decoration.

The scheme is run in conjunction with local councils and Sarsen has agreements with a number of authorities in Wiltshire, Exeter and Devon.

Any landlords interested in joining the scheme can contact Ms Hopgood on (01380) 735341.