COUNCIL officials have defended criticism over the organisation of St Helens Show, after local councillor John Beirne received over 80 complaints from residents.

Coun Beirne, who represents the Sutton Park Drive Estate, received complaints of noise, litter, parking and associated problems. He said: "I have been councillor in Marshall's Cross for 11 years now, and every now and again I've had a few complaints - this year I've had more than 80."

Local residents sent a petition to the council, complaining of these problems, but when they received no response, Coun Beirne carried out a survey and another petition, which he presented at the full council meeting.

A council spokeswoman said: "The St Helens Show is the biggest free event of its kind in Europe and attracts upwards of 250,000 people every year, including visitors from the continent."

She added: "The council does try to minimise any disruption, but with an event of this magnitude there is inevitably inconvenience which we do try and keep to an absolute minimum."