RUSSELL and Russell solicitors has been chosen by the Government to help introduce its new Home Information Packs.

From June 1, all home owners in England and Wales will need to prepare an information pack before putting their home up for sale.

As part of a test run, which started last week, Russell and Russell, based in Wood Street, Bolton, has been recruited by the Department of Communities and Local Government as an "early adopter" - helping home owners compile the packs.

DCLG is running a national, voluntary dry-run in eight areas - including Greater Manchester - offering free Home Information Packs.

The packs will include Energy Performance Certificates, looking at the environmental impact of the house, and Home Condition Reports - the traditional survey that used to be commissioned by the buyer.

Stephen Crompton, partner at Russell & Russell, said: "We are participating in the dry-run to try to increase confidence in the mandatory operation of the scheme.

"As an early adopter we have the opportunity to iron out the practical hurdles associated with the preparation of Home Information Packs - testing the new systems and services that are required to produce the contents.

"We hope to soon be in a position to provide valuable feedback to the local estate agents who will be on the front line when HIPs goes live in June."