Thrifty Conservative controlled Ribble Valley Borough Council has announced a council tax increase of just 2.95 per cent or £3.93 on a Band D property.

The council's Policy and Finance Committee also gave the thumbs-up to extra funding for the Clitheroe Castle and Museum, which is due to open in May following a £3.2million renovation, and the employment of four modern apprentices.

Ribble Valley Borough Council Conservative Leader Michael Ranson said: "The council was faced with a very difficult budget for next year, following the transfer of its housing stock, the potential impact of the recession and service improvements requested by committees.

"We are pleased to add extra items totalling over £200,000 to next year's budget, including extra revenue funding for the new Clitheroe Castle and Museum, and additional dog warden patrols.

"Given the current economic downturn, money has also been set aside from council reserves for the employment of four modern apprentices.

"The council's budget working group and officers have worked hard to identify efficiency savings of £436,000 in this year's budget and are to be congratulated for their excellent financial management."

The council's Policy and Finance Committee agreed to take £246,000 from council balances in order to produce a Band D council tax of £137.26.

The budget will be presented to a full council meeting for ratification on March 10 2009.

Council tax bills will include precepts from Lancashire County Council, Lancashire Constabulary, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and the parishes. Full details will be available at www.ribblevalley.gov.uk after March 10.

Ends.