SOUTH Ribble Council leader Tony Kelly has been ousted from his position by members of his own party.

Councillor Kelly had led both the local Labour party and the borough council since the party took control of the borough three years ago.

But at the party's Annual General Meeting, earlier this month, fellow councillor Gina Lewis decided to stand against him for the leadership of the South Ribble Labour group, winning the backing of the majority of the party.

His deputy, Bamber Bridge South Councillor Tom Hanson, has also been dropped in favour of Farington Councillor David Wooldridge.

Coun Kelly, who represents the Seven Stars ward, said he was shocked by the decision.

He said: "I couldn't understand it, it is totally against what normally happens." He will remain a councillor.

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