COUNCIL tax payers in Pendle are being encouraged to pay their bills by direct debit.

Pendle Council is sending out leaflets explaining the advantages with the bills.

The council says that paying by Direct Debit will save time and money.

They say that by paying this way, people would avoid forgetting to pay their bills and having reminders sent to them.

Jean Baxendale, the council's local taxation manager, said, "Direct debit is a much easier way to pay council tax.

"Once you have returned your signed form, you don't have to think about the bill again. We take care of the rest.

"In the unlikely event that an error is made by us, or your bank or building society, you have a guarantee that a full and immediate refund will be made. This will include any charges you incur."

A new leaflet entitled Don't Turn A Blind Eye to the Advantages of Direct Debit, featuring a graphic of Lord Nelson, has been produced by the council to promote the advantages of paying by direct debit.

The council's campaign is being run at the same time as the national television and a local radio direct debit campaign.