RESIDENTS in Ribble Valley are among the best in Britain at paying their council tax, according to new Government figures.

Figures from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister place the rural borough in the top 15 best performing local authorities in the country.

Ribble Valley Council managed to collect 99 per cent of council tax for the year 2002 to 2003, placing it ahead of other Lancashire districts for collection rates.

The authority last year collected £25million in council tax from a £1,200 average bill for each household, plus a further £10million in business rates.

Council leader Chris Holtom today praised residents and council staff for the high collection rates.

He said: "Over the past decade we have consistently had a high collection rate, but a rate of 99 per cent is particularly high, and we are thoroughly delighted.

"First, and foremost, I must pay tribute to the council taxpayers of Ribble Valley, who pay up on time. They take their responsibilities seriously and we are grateful to them.

"It means we have money in balances and are able to provide them with the services they want.

"I would also like to pay tribute to our council officers, who issue bills promptly and, if necessary, follow up notices."

Local Government Minister Nick Raynsford said he was pleased that local authorities were continuing to improve their collection rates for council tax.

Collection rates for other authorities in Lancashire are:

Hyndburn 93.6 per cent, Rossendale 94.1 per cent, Pendle 94.8 per cent, Burnley 95.1 per cent, Blackburn 95.1 per cent and Blackpool 95.5 per cent.