COUNCIL tax collection rates have reached their highest Richmondshire in at least eleven years.

In the last 12 months the authority collected 98.94 per cent of council tax – making it not only the best performing council in North Yorkshire, but 20th in the country.

It collects council tax from 23,500 homes across the district – acting as the agent for precepts from North Yorkshire County Council, the fire and police services and local parishes.

“We are very proud to be topping the local chart and would like to thank our council tax payers – the vast majority of whom pay regularly and on time,” said Cllr Bill Glover,

“We don’t ignore those that don’t do this – we owe it to our 98.94 per cent to pursue those that withhold payment.”

The council’s business rates collection was at 98.53 per cent - putting it at 166 in the country. In an effort to improve these collection rates the council is working closely with specialist insolvency and revenues solicitors, Alexander Whyatt Solicitors.