TAXPAYERS have reacted angrily after discovering the leader of Bracknell Forest Council claimed five times as many expenses than his colleagues.

Last week, the News revealed that Councillor Paul Bettison claimed five times as many expenses than the rest of the council combined. 

He also said he was unable to use public transport because of medical conditions, leading scores of residents to vent their frustration and praise Labour Cllr Mary Temperton, who takes a reduced wage.

Residnet Donna Pressland commented: “I don’t get travel expenses to travel to London for the hospital and I’m sure if I did I would not be allowed First Class travel. This man is a joke - Remember this at the next election.

“Well done to the Labour councillor Mary Temperton for setting an example.”

Julie Haycock wrote: “At last this person has been found out. I used to live in Bracknell and this particular councillor has only ever been for himself. 

“He needs to be made to repay every penny he has had for expenses back. Always expects preferential treatment whereever he goes.

“Mary Temperton has always been for the people.”

The Conservative politician was the only member to travel First Class on trains, racking up £1,230.50 in fares and spending £1,229 on taxis.

Amanda Collman said: “We have food banks and homeless shelters in Bracknell Forest, it is disgusting he is getting away with milking the system. Time to go Bettison.”

Cat Owens said: “Why doesn’t he submit a claim for PIP and go through the same horror as every other disabled person has to. 

“If he manages to get through the ridiculous assessment and appeal process then he could use the money the government paid him to travel, it’s called Mobility and he might not look like such a hypocrite when he parks in a disabled bay either.”

Cllr Bettison has been contacted by the The News but had not responded by the time we went to press.