ONE of East Lancashire's longest-serving Labour councillors has defected to the Lib Dems just days after being told he had been de-selected for election.

Today, Great Harwood county councillor George Slynn slammed regional Labour Party bosses for dumping him from their selection group and said: "I haven't lost my marbles."

Coun Slynn yesterday told Lib Dems leaders he was crossing the County Hall chamber to join them.

He had been due to meet county council leader Hazel Harding -- who was only informed of the departure by the Lancashire Evening Telegraph -- but instead told her of his decision by letter.

Coun Harding confirmed his move followed the decision not to make him the Labour Party candidate for the Great Harwood seat in this summer's elections.

Each candidate had to undergo an interview to deem whether they are competent enough to stand for election. Despite being disabled, Coun Slynn has attended more meetings than most other younger Labour backbenchers at county hall.

He said: "I have been placed in a position where I either stand as a candidate or cross the floor if I want to continue being involved as a county councillor.

"I feel aggrieved people who don't know me say I am not up to the job any more. I have spoken forcefully at the last two meetings and I certainly haven't lost my marbles, which seems to be the inference from their decision.

"I have no hard feelings towards the Labour group at county hall, and I hope people understand my decision."

County Coun Harding said: "It is very sad that someone with such a long history with the Labour Party has chosen to take this decision.

"I have not had the chance to persuade him not to take this decision because he chose to inform me by letter."

LibDem leader David Whipp said: "We are delighted to welcome George to the party. He has been a hard-working councillor and has the respect of other councillors.

"He has been treated very badly. We have similar beliefs and I think he will find a home here."

Coun Slynn has been a county councillor since 1981 and is a former Hyndburn council leader. He was ousted in 1999 by road humps campaigning independent Adrian Shurmer.

Coun Slynn was then subject to a police and council investigation after Mr Shurmer made claims about electoral irregularities in Coun Slynn's campaign.

Both inquiries cleared Coun Slynn of any offence.

Coun Slynn was the only Labour member not to vote in favour of the controversial care home

closure plan

in 2002.