AN Ilminster town councillor has hit back at critics who blasted the decision to increase the town's council tax precept by an unprecedented 39%.

Cllr Linda Vijeh contacted the News this week to remonstrate with those who commented on-line on the hike, accusing some of venting personal and unjustified attacks on the Mayor Cllr Carol Goodall.

Following the announcement of the extra 'Mars bar a week' to be paid by the town's taxpayers last week, website users suggested councillors were out of touch with economic reality, and the Mayor was singled out for criticism.

Cllr Vijeh said: “I would not argue with the right to express a view but many of the comments were made from a position of ignorance, and I would suggest, personal self-interest.

“The money is not going to the town council as has been suggested. It is being used to provide the services the people of the town have made it clear they wish to see retained.”

Cllr Vijeh suggested that previous councils failed to take responsibility for putting up the precept - when it would have been prudent to ensure the town's fabric was maintained and to preserve services under threat following cuts to district and county funding.

Cllr Vijeh added: “I would ask many of those who made comment - when was the last time you gave up your time and energy to help to improve our environment?

“At last count the average time spent on town council work amounts to around ten hours per week per person, with the Mayor putting in many times that, for no personal gain.”