MANY Herefordshire families face a difficult year with the county's average council tax bill about to go above £1,000 for the first time.

The Hereford Times has learned that Band D households could be paying as much as £1,150 once Police and fire service charges are added to Herefordshire Council's final figure.

Estimates put to the council's cabinet suggest that, at best, households across all bands can expect a 10.4% rise on last year's total. That would set the initial Band D bill at £972.

Hereford and Worcester Fire Authority expects to add £60.95 to the total while West Mercia Police Authority has been asked to approve an increase of at least 15.4% on its precept - an extra £18.40.

Members could, however, opt for the 19.4% rise - an extra £23.27 - that the chief constable believes will ensure his service can meet strategy targets.

Both sums are still subject to confirmation and should be set in about two weeks. With these additions the Band D bill goes up to between £1,120 and £1,150.

Council chairman Councillor Roger Phillips confirmed the figures put to him by the Hereford Times and accepted that the related rise of between 10% and 11% would impact on many struggling families.

He was 'hopeful' that the final total would not go any higher than its best case 10.4% estimate.

The calculations of the council's controlling Conservative/Independent alliance could yet be undermined as alternative spending plans are drawn up by the Liberal Democrat/Labour opposition.

Opposition leader Councillor Terry James feared 'thousands' would not be able to meet their council tax bill if the proposed rise went through.

The first blows in any political fight over the rise may well be struck as soon as next Monday when the council's strategic monitoring committee meets. The full council will vote on a recommended rise next month.