A POWER-sharing coalition could take control of Pendle Council – in an echo of national politics.

The Conservatives in the borough are now the largest single party, after Neil Butterworth seized the Horsfield seat from former Colne committee chairman Sharon Davies.

But no single party is in overall control at Pendle with the Lib Dems on 16 seats, Labour on 13 and the British National Party with two representatives.

Now new Tory group leader Coun Mike Blomeley has proposed an all-party executive to control the borough’s affairs, for the next 12 months at least, replacing the current Lib Dem administration.

Coun Tony Greaves, a senior Lib Dem, said the party was preparing to have a group meeting to discuss the issue next Monday.

The possibility of joining the coalition, or going into opposition for a period, would be decided then, he added.

Meanwhile Labour chiefs said they were still open to any offers ahead of next Thursday’s annual council meeting, when the make-up of the executive will be decided.

Coun Mohammed Iqbal, Labour group leader, said: “The bottom line is that the Lib Dems have no mandate to rule, and neither have the Tories, so we are prepared to keep an open mind and listen.

“We are prepared to work for the good of Pendle and the Labour group’s door is open.

"Let’s see how things pan out.”