A NEW body aimed at improving relationships between Vale residents and gipsies in Wychavon has been set up by the district council.

The move followed an awareness session for councillors before Christmas when it was agreed more could be done to build relationships.

The gipsy scrutiny team discussed a number of topics including equalities, planning, housing and legal issues. They also discussed the need to reduce tensions between gipsies and local settled communities.

The team will be making recommendations for the future to the government so local views help shape legislation and planning policy.

At an overview and scrutiny meeting last month it was agreed that the group should be chaired by Evesham councillor Adrian Hardman.

Cllr Hardman said: "Gipsies are often in the media and we want to see what more we can do to make sure we provide the right services for gipsies and improve relationships between the council, gipsies and settled residents."

"I'm delighted to be leading this review and proud we're taking a proactive approach."

Head of strategy and communications Fiona Narburgh, team co-ordinator said: "We have a council priority of reaching out to everyone and we know we can do more to reach our gipsy communities to make sure they get the services they require."

Gipsies are the largest ethnic minority group in the Wychavon area so new ways to talk and listen to the needs of gipsies as well as the needs of settled residents is one thing the review will help with, she added.