GRAVESHAM Council says its council tax rise is the second lowest in Kent.

The council has set a rise of 4.8 per cent for its share of the council tax.

This means the council's average Band D property council tax rate is £146.88.

A property in this band will pay £1,294.88 when the charges from Kent County Council (KCC), Kent Police Authority and Kent Fire and Rescue Authority are added.

Additional charges apply to people living in parish council areas.

A council spokesman claims the borough only keeps 11p of every council tax pound collected.

Council leader Councillor John Burden said: "Huge strides have been made in terms of regeneration, the environment, community safety and public health.

"We are proud of what's been done so far.

"But we also recognise the challenges ahead - we are not complacent."

Bills will be sent out later this month together with a booklet explaining the charges and how the council spends its share.