AN employment tribunal at a Liverpool court collapsed on Tuesday after the Preston applicant failed to turn up for the hearing.

William Allison had claimed he was the victim of racial discrimination after being unfairly dismissed from his job with Preston Borough Council.

The Liverpool tribunal waited more than an hour for Mr Allison, but chairman Elaine Donnelly dismissed his claim due to insufficient evidence.

An application for costs was made by Preston Borough Council but the decision was adjourned to a later date.

Representatives for Preston Borough Council are delighted with the outcome of the case, saying the tribunal recognises the council's commitment to equal opportunities and to tackling racial discrimination.

Councillor Ken Cole, cabinet member for housing and direct services, outlined the council's commitment to valuing diversity within the authority.

He said: "Equal opportunities is a key commitment and priority for us -- as discrimination will not be tolerated by the council. We've already taken action to improve recruitment, selection and retention processes -- as well as training -- to ensure fair and equal opportunity for all.

"We're also well on the way to achieving level three of the Commission for Racial Equality's Local Government standard. All this work has been recognised by the tribunal and I'm pleased they've ruled that there is no case to answer."