A COUNCIL has issued an unreserved apology – after dipping into residents’ bank accounts four days early.

Ryedale District Council in North Yorkshire has now promised to reimburse any bank charges incurred by those who pay their council tax by direct debit.

The error occurred with direct debit customers who pay their council tax instalments on the first day of the month.

As New Year’s Day was a non-working day, direct debit payments were due to be collected on January 2.

But an administrative error resulted in the collection being made from bank accounts four days earlier, on December 30.

“Ryedale District Council unreservedly apologises for this matter,” said a spokesman.

“Any customers who have incurred bank charges as a direct result of this error should contact Revenues and Benefits Services on 01653-600666 ext: 650 and advice will be given with regards to reimbursement.”