A TOWN centre law firm which has helped more than 1,000 needy residents with housing problems will be closing down at the end of this month.

Church Green-based Fentimans has, through Legal Aid, represented tenants at hundreds of court cases and is the only one of its kind in Redditch.

But due to cutbacks, an increase in administration and the low profitability of carrying out such work, the office has now been forced to close its doors.

Solicitor Peter Bourne said: "We take on about 20 new clients each month.

"We've taken on a range of cases, including helping tenants who are about to be evicted for rent arrears, tenants who have been illegally evicted by landlords and tenants who can't get repairs carried out."

The firm has also provided advice and help to homeless people.

Mr Bourne added: "Because we have to close, it now means the people of Redditch will have to go to Birmingham as it's the nearest place which offers this kind of specialist help.

"It won't be easy for many people, especially if they are on a low income."