A HOUSING association has been commended for its excellent customer service.

Colne Housing, based in Colchester, has been awarded the Customer Service Excellence Award for the fourth year running.

The award tests housing associations on their timeliness, staff attitude and service delivery.

Colne's Chief Executive, Sara Thakker, said: "We are really pleased to have passed with flying colours.

“It is testimony to the hard work of all our staff who have shown great commitment to ensuring we continually improve our services to our customers."

The overview report from the awarding body said there had been positive changes in renewing and delivering even better levels of customer service.

The association has just set up a new customer consultation process, which was recognised.