For retired couple Ronald and Betty Waldron, 77, the council tax now accounts for considerably more than a month's income.

The pair live in a three-bedroom house in The Mall, Old Town, which is in Band E, making their bill £1,272.66.

Mr Waldron, 79, has a Great Western Railway pension of about £60 a week and the pair have a joint state pension of £190.

He said: "Over the last two years there's been a 30 per cent increase in our council tax and our pension has only gone up by about two per cent a year.

"There must be thousands of OAPs in much the same position.

"They should give the older folk a reduction in council tax and let the younger elements pay a little bit more.

"I can't find any more savings at all. We've got other commitments which come to about £60 a week.

"The only way we can cut back is on food expenses and enjoyment.

"We like going dancing but we can't afford to have big holidays."