Embsay with Eastby Parish Council has lowered its budget for next year – to ease the burden on local ratepayers.

It has agreed to spend £15,815 in 2014-15 – more than £500 below last year’s figure – and will collect £15,770 from council taxpayers (compared to £15,809 in 2013-14).

“We have once again made a special effort to examine in detail each and every council expenditure and activity,” said council chairman Gill Quinn.

“This has resulted in a budget which reflects the current economic climate and Government policy to restrict public spending and cap local authority budgets.

“We have continued to encourage additional expenditure relating to the maintenance and upkeep of our two villages while limiting administrative costs, which are actually lower than last year. “Many important expenditure categories for next year have remained constant, and these should continue to have a positive impact on our community,” added Coun Quinn.

A copy of the budget is at embsaywitheastby.org and hard copies can be obtained by calling 01282 850851.