Sir,

As the owners of a second home in Tenby, you will not be surprised that I am concerned about the 50 per cent increase in council tax. However, I believe that the 80 per cent of ratepayers who are resident may also think it is not such a good idea in the future.

There is no evidence that prices have risen due to second home owners. For example, my two-bed flat appears to be worth exactly the same now as when I bought it in 2001, and there are many such places for sale at the same price in Tenby. So the excuse for the rate rise seems false, and may not lead to any increase in resident owners.

This is such an easy way to get more money that it removes any incentive for the council to spend efficiently. More money does not necessarily mean better services.

Second home owners and their family and friends make a lot of use of local businesses, and not just during the holiday season.

We have spent many happy days in Tenby, both as children, and with our own children and grandchildren. So we hope we will be able to afford to keep our flat.

Mark and Mo Martin,

Penarth,

South Glamorgan.