I have been taking issue with my water company about an increase in my water bill.

I am now on a water meter but my bill for June this year was double my usual half-yearly amount because, I am told, it was based on an estimate.

Even when revised, the payment was changed in June instead of April and was, therefore, higher than previous payments.

I would advise everyone who is struggling financially to inquire about the real reason for water bill increases.

Even unmetered customers have received greatly increased water bills this year.

For most pensioners on a state pension of £80 per week who also pay hugely-increased council tax and rent in some cases, the financial situation is a nightmare.

Where will it all end? Even wealthier oldies have seen their savings rapidly decline over recent years.

The London-based National Pensioners' Convention is still fighting our corner for a fairer basic pension. Why not join them?

They will be lobbying Parliament on September 8, 2004.

For details, contact NPC, 19-23 Ironmonger Row, London, EC1V 3OP. Tel. 020 7553 6510. Website: www.natpencon.org.uk .

-T Brown, Worthing