AN elderly man who owes Hounslow Council over £2,000 in rates appeared at Feltham court last week.

Frederick Dawes, aged 69, of Lynfold Road, Isleworth, had his case adjourned to a later date for a lawyer to investigate his position.

Magistrates were told that Dawes should have submitted claims forms to the council as he is of limited income.

The council had tried to get their money from him but had been unsuccessful.

Representing him, Adam Roberts, said that Dawes does not communicate well with authority and lives on a small pension.

District Judge, Stephen Day commented: "It appears that some people will not be helped."

He said that Dawes must get his council tax sorted out or he faces prison.