Narberth Town Council has increased its budget.

Members put the precept up £3,425 to £40,000 at their first meeting of 2013 on Tuesday.

It is the first hike since 2010.

Savings have been made across the board in a bid to combat a reduction in the town council's income.

These include cutting back on this year's donations. The Queen's Hall donation has been reduced by £500 and the Civic Week donation by £50. As some of last year's donation cheques are still available, Narberth Museum, Narberth Rugby Club and Narberth Football Club's donations have been withdrawn. There is to be no donation given to the Allotments and the Narberth and District Community Sports Association will receive a donation of £500, thus creating an overall reduction of £1,700.

After considering the balance sheets, Clr. Henry Langen felt it was 'ludicrous' that the council had the lowest precept in Pembrokeshire and had not increased it further to support more organisations in the town.

"Council has not been brave enough to put the precept up another £5,000," he said, abstaining from the overall vote of acceptance.

"I don't understand why we have got the lowest precept, yet we are depriving vital community amenities of money."

It was proposed by Clr. David Norcross, seconded by Clr. Mrs. Elizabeth Rogers and agreed that the budget be set at £40,000.

As mentioned, Clr. Langen abstained.