COUNCIL chiefs say a partnership between two local authorities to deliver back office functions has saved more than £13m.

Xentrall Shared Services, based at Lingfield Point, in Darlington, provides IT systems and support to 4,500 staff working for Darlington and Stockton councils.

It also manages a 15,000 strong payroll, processes thousands of invoices and manages a design and print studio.

When the partnership was set up in 2008 it was envisaged it would make savings, but the level achieved has been almost double the original target.

Councillor Bob Cook, leader of Stockton Borough Council said: “In 2008 it was seen as an ambitious move, but it has more than proved its worth with the financial and service rewards.

“We want to thank everybody who has contributed to its success.”

Councillor Bill Dixon, the outgoing leader of Darlington Borough Council said Xentrall was a “fantastic example” of partnership working.