BURT TO CONTINUE FIGHT AGAINST RENT HIKE FOR COMMUNITY ACTION

3.26.10pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 18th Oct 2007

Richard Burt today renewed his pledge to fight plans by Malvern Town Council to charge Community Action a commercial rent for their premises.

West Worcestershire's Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate said that the rent hike would cripple the organisation and put its future in jeopardy.

Mr Burt will contact the Town Council Clerk this week and ask to speak against the rent hike at a meeting of the Town Council on 30th October when a decision is expected to be made.

Richard Burt said:

"I hope councillors will now reflect on the damage they could do to the work of volunteers supported by Community Action, reaching thousands of residents in need who benefit in so many ways.

"There is time yet for a change of heart, but I am determined to be at the next meeting of the town council to press the case if councillors look set to go ahead with this decision.

"I would advise any person who relies on voluntary services to come along and explain to councillors just what effect the loss of voluntary support would have on their lives."