The rise is in the main due to an increase in staff costs, for the clerk, responsible financial officer and a new litter warden for Shotley Gate, plus the increase in maintenance, repair and replacement of two play areas, bins etc.

The workload of the both the RFO and clerk and trebled over recent years and both previous occupants of the posts were woefully underpaid, both in their hourly rate and for the hours worked.

Another reason for the rise this year is the very low precept in the previous year, when the Council used reserves already held.

Please note that although the percentage rise is high, the precept as a whole represents an amount of only £20 per elector, per annum. The new precept more clearly reflects the increased level of service that Shotley parishioners are now receiving.

Please do visit the Parish Council pages on MyShotley.com for further clarification of the Parish's outgoings. Eg:

• For detail of the Precept (the amount requested via the council tax) go to http://www.myshotley.com/spc/precept0708.pdf
• For the RFO's report go to http://www.myshotley.com/spc/SPC-minutes-2006-nov-16.pdf

I hope this clarifies the reason for the increase. If you require further information, please do contact the Parish Clerk or Responsible Finance Officer.

• Parish Council