A LONG-SERVING borough leader is facing a post-election challenge to his job.

Hyndburn Council’s Labour group boss Cllr Miles Parkinson is to face an election when it holds its annual meeting on Monday night.

He is facing a challenge from Clayton-le-Moors ward's Cllr Melissa Fisher.

His deputy Cllr Paul Cox is also to face an election with Rishton's Cllr Kate Walsh as his rival.

The contest follows Labour losing a net four wards to the Conservatives in Thursday's borough elections - losing five an gaining Barnfield.

Cllr Fisher said: "Hyndburn Council has never had a female leader.

"We feel a female leadership and fresh approach would be positive for the borough and its residents.

"The group needs a rethink after losing wards in the election.

"We would seek to stop the drift in its thinking with new policies including a review of plans for Accrington town centre."

Cllr Parkinson, leader of the Labour group for 11 years and the council for 10, said: "The Labour group will meet on Monday night.

"There will be a leadership election and also one for the deputy leadership currently held by Cllr Paul Cox.

"I am happy to take part in the leadership election process.This is democracy in action within the Labour group."

Cllr Walsh said: "The public has spoken and we feel it is time for a change."

Conservative group leader Marlene Haworth, who is unlikely to face a challenge when it also meets on Monday, said: "It is not for me to comment on Labour's internal disputes of which there are many."