A SENIOR Pendle Labour Party official has resigned as a governor at two schools after a row over drunken comments he posted on Facebook.

David Foat, a party vice-chairman, stood down from the boards of both Park High School and Park Primary School, in Colne.

He had been criticised for using 'inappropriate language' during an online debate about Labour's recent agreement to run Pendle Council in coalition with the Liberal Democrats.

The controversial move, which saw Conservative Cllr Joe Cooney ousted as council leader, prompted lengthy discussions on the Colne Talk Facebook group.

Mr Foat, who stood unsuccessfully as a candidate in Vivary Bridge ward during last month's Colne Town Council elections, admitted posting comments after 'several glasses of wine'.

He told the Lancashire Telegraph: "There is a lot of swearing on Facebook. Lots of councillors and members of the public do it.

"There were obscenities directed at me as well. It was a bit wrong what I posted, but I was drunk. I swear a lot in every day life, as do many other people, and I was just talking like I would if I was out drinking.

"I have sent my letter of resignation to both schools and, as far as I am aware, they have both accepted.

"I'm not sure if Pendle Labour Party will take any action because I don't think they have received any complaints. I'm still on Facebook and I don't think they have had any complaints either."

Lancashire County Council confirmed that Mr Foat's roles at the two schools had been terminated with immediate effect.

Cllr Cooney, leader of the Conservatives on Pendle Council, said: "I think the words he used to reply to some people were inappropriate.

"We all have to remember that we are still the same people on Facebook, whether we are councillors, school governors or whoever.

"I think he has done the right thing by resigning. It will be interested to see what action, if any, Pendle Labour Party takes."

Mr Foat, 58, is Pendle Labour Party's minutes secretary and vice-chair in charge of membership for 2014-15.

Yvonne Tennant, the party's secretary, said she was not aware of the matter and no complaints had been made to her about Mr Foat's conduct.