A Council Tax rise of 3.94 per cent was agreed by Worcestershire Coun-ty Council yesterday (Thursday).

It means residents living in an average Band D property will pay £857.03 for its services, an increase of £32.50.

The Council was one of three authorities to set a budget this week.

West Mercia Police Authority, which was capped by the Government last year, agreed an increase in its Council Tax precept of 4.92 per cent.

Robert Foster, chair of West Mercia Police Authority, said authority members faced a very tough budget making decision this year.

He said: "Pressure on the Authority to provide an effective and efficient police force within these severe budgetary constraints has been considerable."

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Authority agreed its budget on Wednesday with an increase of 4.55 per cent in the council tax precept.