PASTY eaters have been left shocked by the government's proposal to charge at least an extra 40p or more on the average size pasty.

If the government introduces the legislation, this would mean 20 per cent VAT on food that has not been cooled beneath the 'ambient temperature'.

The 'Post' took to the streets of Launceston to find out what the town's pasty fans had to say.

"It's terrible," said Alison Parnell, who lives in the town. "It's bad for small firms as it's going to harm their businesses."

Andy Penn and Lindsay George, from the area, said they would be put off buying pasties as a result of a price hike.

Andy said it was "crazy", especially as it was just on hot pasties and not cold ones.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.