After two years of no hike, Ramsey's rates will rise from April.

The eight pence increase will take the town rate to 332p in the pound.

Commissioners’ lead member for finance Richard Radcliffe told colleagues budgets had been rigorously scrutinised to identify savings and drive up efficiencies without unduly compromising levels of service.

He said the new rate largely reflected the impact of increased refuse disposal charges imposed by the Department of Local Government and the Environment, although the commissioners say that rise won’t be passed on entirety to the ratepayer.

A statement on Ramsey town rates for 2010-2011 is available from the Town Hall and can be downloaded from the Commissioners’ website: ramsey.gov.im