HAMBLETON has maintained its position as one of the five lowest districts for council tax in the country.

Government figures show it has the third lowest Band D tax of the 238 shire districts across England. At £896, it is just £17 more than the lowest ranking authority - Broxbourne, in Hertfordshire.

It is the lowest in North Yorkshire by £68 and almost £300 less than the highest shire district in England.

Council leader June Imeson said: "Our residents not only pay less than anywhere else in North Yorkshire, but less than most areas in the country - a record we are very proud of and intend to keep.