FALSE rumours that the deputy leader of Rossendale Council has been caught drink-driving have been slammed.

Whitworth councillor Sean Serridge said he was the victim of a ‘witch hunt’ after speculation in the Valley.

Police have confirmed there is no truth in the allegations and Coun Serridge has called on the person who started the rumour to come forward.

Coun Serridge, 26, said: “These rumours are a complete and total lie.

“It is a real shame that the people who are telling these tales are not prepared to put their names to their claims.

“As the newly-elected deputy leader of the council I am far more concerned with the issues and problems facing our borough rather than wasting time on these personal, untrue, vexatious and malicious allegations.

“They should discuss concerns face to face. I am happy to meet them.”

In May 2005 Coun Serridge made history when he was elected to the county council at the age of 21 making him the youngest county councillor.

He has been previously convicted with drink driving in May 2006, which he branded a ‘foolish mistake’, and was banned from driving for 12 months.

Leader of Rossendale Council, Coun Alyson Barnes said: “This is mischief making at its worse.

"We all have far more important things to think about, especially when there is no truth in the allegations.

"I just don’t understand where some people are coming from.”

A Lancashire Police spokesman confirmed they were not investigating and had no records of any offences being committed.