A pensioner who refused to pay his council tax has been told to expect a visit from the bailiffs.

Terry Reilly, of Maple Close, Burgess Hill, said he was willing to "cut out the middle man" and go straight to prison to avoid paying the £32.15 he owes Mid Sussex District Council.

The 67-year-old said: "I'm not going to give them any money.

"It's about time people realised this council tax is impacting on the most vulnerable in society.

"I have paid £1,080 - that's 3.1 per cent over and above last year. "I will pay the rate of inflation but not a penny more.

"It's a lot of money but it's obviously not enough for the Government.

"I am not looking forward to going to prison but someone has got to make a stand."

The Argus reported in March that he had appeared at Haywards Heath Magistrates Court threatened with bankruptcy proceedings, bailiffs and a three-month jail sentence.

He refused to pay and has also withheld part of this year's bill.

A district council spokeswoman said: "While the council sympathises with Mr Reilly's predicament, Mid Sussex District Council is responsible for collecting council tax and business tax across the district.

"It does not have any discretionary powers in this matter."