SIR – In these austere times we are constantly told that we must pay more and receive less in order to balance the budget. This would be more acceptable if we were given a choice.

Unfortunately, we are not as we are legally obliged to pay council tax.

We are therefore perceived by our councillors to be a captive audience and have bottomless purses, particularly in Addingham and Ilkley.

We have the option of cutting down on our usage of gas and electric, or buying cheaper brands of food to make ends meet. However, our councillors think nothing of increasing our council tax and then having the effrontery to inform us that it is for our benefit.

Addingham’s local precept has increased by a jaw-dropping 56.72 per cent. The question is, why? Is it not time to ask if we are receiving value for money from our councillors (both Bradford MDC and Parish) and invite them to outline in a leaflet delivered to each household in their constituency exactly what benefit paying council tax is having in their constituency?

I look forward to hearing their response, but will not hold my breath.

Paul Denton, Stamp Hill Close, Addingham