A HAPPY dad is celebrating after the controversial Child Support Agency dropped its demand for £7,300.

Shaun Middleton was furious when the cash demand bombshell dropped through the door of his Colne home in November.

But today he admitted: "I'm shocked but highly delighted that the CSA has dropped its demands.

"They don't usually give up and admit to making mistakes."

The only explanation the CSA gave Mr Middleton, who runs Marnie Residential Care Home in Keighley Road, was that the demand was down to incorrect procedure. The Agency has dropped the bill and an interim maintenance assessment of £110.55 per week.

Mr Middleton's original court order, which meant he was paying £40 a week for his two daughters, has been reinstated. He is divorced from his first wife.

"The CSA has said it will be in touch with me to sort everything out," added Mr Middleton.

"I'm surprised at the decision but it goes to show that this kind of thing is worth pursuing."

Mr Middleton enlisted the help of Pendle MP Gordon Prentice to help fight his battle.

"I have little doubt the coverage in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph has helped enormously in this matter and I want to thank all those involved for their help and support," he added.

A spokeswoman for the CSA said they did not comment on individual cases.

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