A Redcar stand-up comedian has criticised his council after he received a court summons for underpaying his council tax bill by £7.11.

Chris McGlade, of Durham Road, a campaign leader against Redcar's seafront development, feels he has been victimised over the matter, which Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council strongly deny.

Mr McGlade, who received the summons and an order to pay £26 costs, said: "I feel as though I am being victimised because I have led the campaign. It would have been easier for them to send me a letter asking me to cross the road and pay the £7.11 than it would to take me to court."

Mr McGlade lost the right to pay by instalments after he failed to pay the full amount due in one instalment. He was then billed for the full amount of £397.11. He borrowed £390, which he used to pay the bill, but did not pay the £7.11.

The council's cabinet member for corporate resources, Councillor Glyn Nightingale, said: "After investigating all the facts and figures from this case, I am absolutely certain that Mr McGlade has been treated no differently from any other council taxpayer who does not adhere to an instalment payment plan.

"We would also advise Mr McGlade, in common with anyone else who experiences difficulties in paying their council tax, to get in touch with us so we can help avoid this type of situation."

The £33.11 now needs to be paid before the court hearing on February 1 to avoid more costs and a liability order.