BOOMING prices are forcing first time buyers out of the local housing market, and risk causing long term social problems in Chard and Ilminster, research by the News has discovered.

Homes have increased in value by as much as 33% in two years, leaving many young people unable to take the first step onto the housing ladder.

The Mayor of Chard, Councillor John Malcolm, told the News of his concerns that many of Chard's poorly paid risk overstretching by taking out a mortgage to buy at current prices, or have to choose between a home and a family.

Price rises are being blamed on a shortage of properties to sell and estate agents are encouraging owners to sell now, to help free up the market.