AN INDEPENDENT housing company that provides more than 9,000 homes in the Trafford area has been named as one of the UK’s top landlords.

Trafford Housing Trust (THT) has been named as the 15th best social housing provider in the country in the inaugural Top 50 Landlords list.

The nominees were picked by 24housing magazine and the Housing Quality Network, who commended THT for its 24 hour response service and close working relationship with Greater Manchester Police.

THT established a social enterprise in partnership with police to employ ex-offenders in clearing empty homes before they are re-let to tenants.

Matthew Gardiner, chief executive of Trafford Housing Trust, is happy that the entrprises’ focus on social and regeneration issues has been honoured.

He said: “We are thrilled to be ranked so highly in 24housing’s list of the Top 50 Landlords in the country. We are proud that our business has been recognised for our values, passion and commitment to our customers.”