Outgoing Bury council leader resigns as Tory boss

The outgoing leader of Bury Council has resigned as the leader of the Conservative group.

Bob Bibby had led the authority for four years but lost control after Labour made six gains from the Tories and Lib Dems in the local elections.

Labour now has 26 councillors, the Tories 20 and the Lib Dems five, with Mike Connolly the new council leader.

A crucial seat was determined by drawing lots when two candidates in Ramsbottom each polled 1,822 votes.

Labour candidate Joanne Columbine beat Tory candidate Robert Hodkinson after they drew straws at the count at Castle Leisure Centre, Bury.

Mr Bibby has said he will stay on as a councillor for Church ward.

This article was reproduced from the BBC