A SERVICE offering advice about tax-related issues has been withdrawn from Kidderminster, mea-ning people will need to direct their enqui-ries to Merry Hill.

Her Majesty's Revenue Centre, previously the income tax office, is no longer running its weekly drop-in service at the town's Jobcentre.

Wyre Forest Citizens Advice Bureau - CAB - has criticised the move, however, feeling it will hit people who rely on the service to help them fill out forms and seek advice on issues such as inheritance tax, income tax and tax credits.

The nearest place to offer a face-to-face service is at Merry Hill's Waterfront.

However, staff at Wyre Forest's CAB fear residents will struggle to reach the site by public transport if they do not have a car.

Kate Bennett, CAB manager, said: "I think it's a shame Kidderminster has lost another vital service.

"It's such a long and daunting journey for a frail and elderly person.

"There is no bus service and they not only have to change trains, but then walk to the Waterfront, which is up a steep hill.

"They are making it very difficult for local people to seek help."

The Jobcentre was refurbished last December but the revenue centre's drop-in service never resumed when it reopened.

Mrs Bennett added: "I don't think the withdrawal of the service was very well publicised. They have placed a poster in the Jobcentre but some people, like an elderly woman seeking information about inheritance tax, is unlikely to go into the Jobcentre.

"We're just sad to see another service withdrawn from Kidderminster. It was very well used and it will be missed in the town."

A spokeswoman for HM Revenue & Customs said: "The last advice session in Kidderminster was held on December 15 at the Jobcentre, just before it closed for refurbishment.

"We have taken this opportunity to review our customer outreach programme to ensure we offer the best service possible and meet the needs of a wide range of people.

"While we are reviewing this local service, help and advice can be obtained by calling our helpline on 0845 3667884 or visiting www.hmrc.gov.uk"

People having problems with tax credits can also find a limited service at Wyre Forest CAB.