A councillor has quit Hyndburn Council Labour group after claiming he is disillusioned with politics.

But the Labour group has professed itself a happy and united team, despite a change of allegiance from one of its best-known councillors.

Malcolm Pritchard handed in his official resignation from the Labour group this week and is now working as an independent councillor.

But group leader Coun Graham Jones has insisted the move will not affect residents.

Accrington Milnshaw ward member Coun Pritchard said he did not feel he could work with the Labour group any longer.

"There is nothing wrong with the party," he said. "I have just become disillusioned with politics and want to spend some time by myself."

He added: "There is no malice, no bitterness. I will serve my ward as I did before and residents can still contact me anytime they want."

Coun Pritchard is the only councillor who does not claim a full allowance for expenses and salary, claiming just £1 in the last financial year.

His daughter Clare is also a councillor for the Milnshaw ward. She will remain with the Labour group.

Coun Pritchard said: "We will still work together to get the best for our ward.

"I will take whatever line I think is best for residents.

"When Clare was ill during elections several Labour councillors came and helped me to canvas the area. I will return the favour if they need my help in the future."

Coun Jones said it was a shame to lose Coun Pritchard from the party.

"He has been a very hard working councillor," he said. "Malcolm had his personal ambitions. He asked honest questions and received honest answers. He was not happy with those answers and decided to leave."

Coun Jones added: "The Labour group will continue to run as a fantastic team. We are exceptionally friendly and exceptionally united. We work as a team and won't tolerate people acting as individuals."

The council is now made up of 18 Conservatives, 14 Labour councillors and three independents.

Leader of the council and Conservative leader Peter Britcliffe said: "We are happy to work with any councillor.

"We will give Coun Pritchard our support to enable him to continue to do his job. "