HOW many of you out there are feeling more prosperous of late, despite the alleged downturn in the economy? How many of you have suddenly realised you have a lot more cash in your pocket, and can't quite work out why?

Well, it's no mystery. For we are presently in that golden period of the year during which council tax need not be paid.

The hated tax is collected in ten monthly installments which run out in January, so all of our salaries go a heck of a lot further in February and March.

It's an obvious fact, but one which is a sharp reminder of how scandalous and disgusting this tax is.

For some people, especially pensioners on fixed incomes, it outstrips their monthly earnings and means they have to dip into their savings.

Every year it gets worse as the tax increase is greater than inflation. And every year, still more services are cut because our councils don't have enough cash. We're currently faced with the ridiculous prospect of loads of street lights being turned off across Bucks to save money.

So where's it all going? Some point to the gold-plated pensions guaranteed for public sector workers. The public's income can be left to flounder on the open market, but heaven forbid that our poor wee council staff ever have to take a cut in earnings or benefits.

Town halls are an anachronism and should be scaled back massively. The world is now a global village, yet we rely on confusing non-functioning local councils to fulfil our everyday needs.

I hope you all enjoy two months of not having the council dip its hands into your pockets. But I hope it causes you to reflect on how much better the world, and your lives, would be without all this municipal nonsense, so you can then join me in lobbying for total reform of this outdated system.