Bolton tax dodgers are likely to face bankruptcy, if they refuse to pay their fines.

This stark warning was announced by Bolton Council after they reported that £6.2 million remained outstanding in council tax arrears. Some of the figures date back to the 1990’s.

Bankrputcy proceedings were introduced in June 2006 as a means of recovering this outstanding debt. In just over a year, seven people have been forced into bankruptcy through non-payment of council tax.

Leading council leader, Cliff Morris says that bankruptcy is used to retrieve money from hardcore residents. Those who have no intention of paying what they owe.

He says; “The council regularly run campaigns to sift out non-payers and bring them to justice. Tax dodging is unfair on those who struggle to make regular payments."

Bankruptcy proceedings take place when debt arrears have accumulated over a period of time, normally two or three years. This measure is used on people who have assets that cannot be retrieved by bailiffs, such as property, stocks and shares.

The council points out that bankruptcy is a last resort for those who have ignored reminder letters, final notices, court summonses and threats of likely imprisonment.

They urge anyone facing financial difficulties to seek immediate debt counselling or to contact their council tax office for further help.