TODAY councillors across Britain are trying to cut bills – but in Suffolk Coastal the most senior members may be getting a 60 per cent rise in allowances. If the suggested changes are approved, council chairman John Hammond could get an 81 per cent increase.

By Richard Cornwell

TODAY councillors across Britain are trying to cut bills – but in Suffolk Coastal the most senior members may be getting a 60 per cent rise in allowances.

Shocked campaigners reacted with disbelief when it emerged that councillors at the Woodbridge-based authority were set for a 20 per cent rise in allowances.

And committee chairmen could see their payment increase by three times that.

An independent panel is recommending that each councillor receives an extra £516 a year, while council leaders would get even more.

Under the changes, council chairman John Hammond would receive an 81pc increase to £4,500 a year.

FULL STORY IN TONIGHT'S EVENING STAR