Teignbridge Council said anger was often taken out on it

Teignbridge District Council does not want to ask residents for more money, although an increase is likely in the county council element of the bill.

Alan Connett, the Liberal Democrat leader of the council, claims local services will not be affected.

Last October three pensioners in court for non-payment were ordered to pay Teignbridge what they owed, but were not ordered to pay court costs.

Collection

The Devon Pensioners' Action Forum claimed the ruling showed that people were listening to their protests, but Teignbridge District Council said it meant the burden of costs had to be passed to other council tax payers.

Mr Connett says people tend to take their anger out on the district council because it collects the tax.

He said: "It is frustrating, but each council has to do what it thinks is right for them.

"Devon County, the fire and police make their own decisions, but what people need to understand is that we're not increasing our part, but are just collecting it for other people."