ONCE again, the council tax rise is above inflation yet, magically, is kept below the Government capping figure.

This rise, together with rail fares up seven per cent, water rates up 18 per cent, first-class mail up seven per cent and my state pension up only 3.1 per cent, can only mean one thing for me - yet another raid on my rapidly dwindling savings!

What did that card say that I received in December? Oh yes, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from your Labour Council. Fat chance!

NUMEN LUMEN