An Isle of Wight town council has agreed to freeze its council tax precept for the second year running.

Last night (Tuesday), Yarmouth Town Council decided its 2023 precept level would remain the same as 2022's, despite rising costs.

In 2021/22, Yarmouth's average Band D council taxpayer paid £128.35 a year — fifth-highest on average, behind Ventnor, Sandown, Ryde, and East Cowes.

This was on top of Council Tax payments to the Isle of Wight Council, police and fire authorities.

The final precept figure will be determined later in the year.

Yarmouth Town Council has been one of the first town, parish and community councils on the Island to set its budget.

Others will make their decisions in the next couple of months.

The precept last rose for Yarmouth residents in 2021.

The Isle of Wight Council has already warned Islanders they are likely to face a five per cent increase in the main part of the monthly charge, as financial pressures continue to rise.

Until January 30, a survey is open for residents to have their say on how they think the IW council should spend its money. Find it here.