Couple ready to go to jail over Olympic tax

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Tom and Rita Glenister are facing court after they refused to pay the amount they believe Londoners are being charged to cover the cost of the 2012 Games.

London taxpayers are contributing £1billion to the £9.3 billion budget through a precept levied by the Greater London Authority. Mr Glenister, 76, says it has added £33.33 to their bill. For two years, the couple, who live in Barnet, have paid all their £2,320 annual bill except the "Olympic surcharge".

Mrs Glenister, 74, said: "It isn't the money - we can pay - but I finally thought that it is time to stick my short little legs down and say 'up with this I will not put'.

"If everyone in England pays it then I will, but the fact that it is just Londoners paying it seems very unfair. I'm not going to run round the track. I'm not going to benefit from this 'legacy'. I'm not a killjoy - I think the Games are great - but I don't see why we should pay for it. We've tried to appeal and do things by the book but it is only by breaking the law that I've got a bit of attention."

The couple are due to appear at Hendon magistrates' court on 15 September. Mrs Glenister said they were worried about a large court bill, but added: "I will appeal to Seb Coe to pay it for me - he's made millions."

A spokesman for Barnet council said: "As the collecting authority, the council takes a strong approach to collecting any unpaid council tax and will use all available means to ensure that residents pay the full amount for which they are liable."