Thousands of residents, selected at random, have been sent questionnaires seeking their views on issues such as waste, litter and leisure facilities.

They can also report concerns about their local environment and suggest ways it could be improved.

Completed entries, which must be returned by 22 November, will be entered into a �250 prize draw.

Councillor Donald Jefferson, portfolio holder for finance and performance, said: "Carlisle City Council provides essential services to local communities and we want local residents views on how we provide these.

"The surveys are very important as they provide the council with vital information on how satisfied our customers are.