Debt tactics

Some years ago, when I lived in Wood Vue, Spennymoor, I had a dispute with Sedgefield Borough Council regarding housing benefit.

They said that I had overclaimed the sum of £33. I was adamant that I had not.

Confrontation ensued.

I steadily refused to accept the council’s reasoning despite being subjected to constant and unreasonable pressure.

One morning a large open topped wagon appeared outside my door. It was the bailiff, two assistants with him, charged with enforcing council instructions to remove property from my home in lieu of this “disputed” £33.

Reluctantly, I was obliged to surrender, having to pay a sum in excess of £33.

My subsequent appeal to the Local Government Ombudsman, on the grounds of council maladministration was proven.

Later I was visited by two council officials offering their apologies.

What price real justice in this England?

I’m afraid we too readily submit to the unreasonable and unacceptable.

AW Dunn,Spennymoor.