COUNCILLORS have clashed over a call for a review of the use of a controversial weedkiller.

St Andrew's ward Conservative Cllr Sara Britcliffe asked Hyndburn Borough's Full Council meeting to authorise a full review of its 'use of herbicides and pesticides and have it finished before next spring, in particular the use of Glyphosate'.

But Cllr Paul, Cox, the authority's and environment boss, moved an amendment referring the matter to Lancashire County Council which is responsible for maintaining highways, roadside verges and footpaths.

This was passed using the Labour party majority on the council.

Cllr Britcliffe said: "This was passing the buck. Amending my motion and exonerating Hyndburn Council of any responsibility with regards to this issue was appalling. The fact that they played party politics with such an issue as our environment and climate change really was awful to see."

Council leader Miles Parkinson said: "Hyndburn has stopped using glyphosate in our parks. On roadside verges and footpaths and other green areas, the responsibility lies with the county council."