THE future of Ribble Valley's split council hangs in the balance today after the sudden resignation of a councillor.

Chipping representative Richard Walne told councillors in a letter that he was now working and living in the North East.

"I am no longer resident in the ward for which I was elected and tender my resignation immediately," he said.

The council is currently split between the Liberal Democrats and Tories, with lone Labour councillor Bert Jones holding the balance of power.

Mr Walne, a Tory, was elected following a by-election less than two years ago and his departure paves the way for a political battle.

Liberal Democrat leader Howel Jones said his party would be going all-out to win the Chipping seat and take control of the council.

But Tory leader Peter Redpath said a Conservative candidate was already lined up for the vacant seat.

"Our candidate Tim Gornall is a well-known Chipping man and we are confident of success," he said.

A council spokesman said a date for the by election had not yet been set.

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