Sir. - As a resident in the Richmondshire Distirct Council area, I object strongly to the council tax increase of 11.5pc for the year 2002-3. On top of last year's 7.3pc increase, this means a rise of nearly 20pc in two years at a time when inflation is running at fractionally over 2pc.

Why is the Government activity at national, county or district level allowed to ignore its own guidelines so blatantly?

North Yorkshire County Council, in its explanatory leaflet, even has the audacity to state, and I quote: "The rise is needed to meet cost and pay increases which are running above inflation ... " Why? Good management and proper financial control would prevent this situation from occurring. Most people's income only go up in line with inflation and they have to manage. It is time that councils were more accountable and seen to deliver "value for money," which is not how it is seen by the majority at present.

If the level and standard of services were improving in line with the increase there may be some justification, but this is not the case. Let us all get the message to our local councillors, these increases have got to stop. Enough is enough!

D G POLLARD

Beckstones,

Reeth.

Sir, - In explaining the outrageous 11.4pc council tax increase, North Yorkshire County Council also informed us that it will increase the number of employees by an extra 750! Why? Are they to be employed as "Lottery thinkers!"

This council cannot afford the upkeep of historic Grantley Hall and other properties. Surely all councils are service agencies and not in the business of acquiring property.

Now, the police authority budget has shot up by more than 40pc. Well over half of that increase has been absorbed by pay and pensions.

Years ago, Sir Leon Brittan was requested to think about the police salaries being in line with the Armed Services. That is seven days' pay, a non-contributory pension, plus an X factor for arduous duties. This could have been funded by central Government and would have stabilised demands made by the police to local councils.

During his tenure of office, our local MP has never mentioned these constant increases. Maybe he can just afford them!

Now, on a lighter note, Richmondshire District Council has signalled its attention to move to Colburn. It could move tomorrow - in tents!

GEORGE HAYES

Maison Dieu,

Richmond.

Sir, - I completely agree with Jackson Taylor (D&S letters, Mar 22) about the discrepancy between inflation of 2.4pc and the new inflated council tax rates for 2002/3. Richmondshire have just come up with an increase of a shade over 11.6%.

I have written to my representative on the Council asking why Richmondshire needs additional money merely to stand still. Like Mr Jackson in Darlington, it would be reassuring to know that our elected representatives are capable of prudent and effective management. Sadly, I fear this is not the case.

MICHAEL J SHARPE

Sleegill,

Richmond,

Moving story

Sir, - I have been told by many local residents of their dismay about the possibility that Richmondshire District Council could move its headquarters to the Richmond Retail Park site.

I am well aware that the present office accommodation in several different locations in Richmond, mostly in different and unsuitable premises, impedes efficiency of operations for employees, councillors and members of the public.

The name of Richmond is known throughout the New World. In the past, many residents of Richmond, North Yorkshire, have settled abroad and named their new homes Richmond. I believe there are more than 57 such towns, so that Richmond, North Yorkshire, has become known "mother of all Richmonds."

Ever since Norman times, Richmond has been a centre of national and local importance, I am sure the demand for modern facilities can be found in Richmond town itself.

GRACE BUCKLE

Linden Gardens

Richmond

Pride in the flag

Sir, - I was delighted to read the article about Miss Maureen Pinkney and her determination to have the St George's flag hoisted early on St George's day, April 23, by Stockton Borough Council (D&S, Mar 15).

There are still many of us who are proud to be English. My husband and I have our own hand-made flag pole and the St George flag is hoisted every year.

With so much of our heritage being sacrificed to Europe let us please stand firm on not losing our patriotism and identity altogether.

JEAN TAYLOR

Whinney Hill,

Stockton-on-Tees.