TORIES have seized power in Hyndburn after striking a deal with the Independent candidate who knocked Labour leader George Slynn off his perch.

Jubilant ex-policeman Adrian Shurmer, who romped to victory in Netherton ward, Great Harwood, has decided to throw his weight behind the Conservatives.

Mr Shurmer, who held the balance of power with Labour and Conservative each on 23 seats, negotiated a deal with Conservative leader Peter Britcliffe giving the Tories his "qualified support" in return for places on five council committees.

The victorious Independent candidate today justified his decision to back the Tories. He said: "I had to support one party or the other so that the business of running the council could continue smoothly.

"It was clear to me that the people wanted a change to a Tory council. So I am giving my qualified support to the Conservatives for 12 months only. I will say what I like and vote as I wish. My priority is giving the people of Great Harwood more control of their affairs."

He added that he had accepted an offer to become vice-chairman of the environmental services committee.

Tory leader Coun Britcliffe, who angered Labour councillors last year with frequent public taunts of "when we take power in May", looks certain to become council leader.

Although the Conservatives would be largely tied to Labour's budget plans for the next year, Coun Britcliffe said there was room for change.

He said he would review Labour plans to build a new town hall and reaffirmed his promise not to allow the building of new council offices worth £6m, saying the money set aside would be put to better use.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.