TWO Warminster men have been given suspended prison sentences after failing to pay council tax.

Gordon Cargill, 36, of Whitecliff Farm Cottages, Brixton Deverill, Warminster, was sentenced to 28 days imprisonment for not paying £819.82 and Eugene Lavelle, 56, of Imberwood Close, Warminster, was sentenced to 28 days imprisonment for non-payment of £993.09 council tax.

Both sentences were suspended at Chippenham Magistrate's Court on April 19 with the condition the council tax was paid back in monthly instalments.

Cllr Roy While, West Wiltshire District Council's corporate portfolio holder, said: "Although we successfully collect some 97 per cent of council tax payable in the district, there are always some people who don't think the system applies to them.

"We take these cases very seriously and we will take people to court if necessary.

"I hope this will stand as a warning to others."