TOWN Hall bosses in Burnley have received official confirmation BNP councillor Luke Smith has resigned as a councillor and are expected to announce the date of a by-election in the next week.

The election, in Lanehead ward, is expected to be held on either Thursday, October 9 or 16.

By law, an election must be called within 35 days of the receipt of a letter calling for an election, signed by two electors from anywhere in the borough.

Deputy returning officer Tom Forshaw said: "Following the receipt of a letter from Coun Luke Smith a notice of vacancy has been posted."

Smith, 21, was suspended from the British National Party after fighting at its annual Red White and Blue Festival in Sawley.

He said he had taken the decision to quit politics because of the way he had been treated by the BNP leadership.

He announced his resignation two weeks ago, but Burnley Council had to wait for an official letter from him.

BNP leaders have yet to decide if they will field a fresh candidate, although all the other main parties have confirmed they will contest the ward.

Mr Smith was initially expelled from the party but was then told by party leaders he would have to face a disciplinary hearing.

His uncle, Steven Smith, who led the BNP to election success in Burnley, has also walked out on the party.