I AM writing in reply to the letter in The Advertiser/-Messenger from Cllr Malcolm Meikle, the leader of Wychavon District Council.

The problem regarding Nellie Copson could be solved easily if the council showed any common sense, flexibility or compassion.

I understand that Miss Copson is paying her domestic council tax. The shop involved has been unoccupied for five years. For that time Miss Copson has had no income from it. Yet the council insists on charging the commercial rate of council tax.

All the council needs to do is to rate the space as domestic premises, not as a shop. End of problem.

Miss Copson is over 80 years of age yet the council will not compromise. It prefers to spend taxpayers' money on expensive legal bills.

To suggest the council has a right to know personal financial information about a resident is a gross impertinence.

Paul Ripley,

The Holloway,

Droitwich Spa.