A MAYOR has hit back at opposition councillors who have publicly accused him of putting party politics before people.

The Mayor of Ferryhill, Labour Councillor Ken Campbell, came under fire from independent members of Ferryhill Town Council who doubt his ability to chair meetings impartially.

At an extraordinary meeting last night (Wednesday, November 27), they cast a vote of no confidence in Coun Campbell despite a warning from clerk Derek Snowball that no action could be taken as it had no legal affect.

Only six councillors attended last night’s meeting, all independents, and voted unanimously in favour of the motion.

Their complaint centred around Coun Campbell’s use of his position as chairman to use a casting vote when the chamber is split over decisions.

They claim that since he took the post in May he has used his casting vote more than 20 times, and always in favour of Labour policies and never to support their ideas.

Coun Brian Gibson said: “The law of probability must indicate that we, as independents, get it right on occasion and equally that the Labour party gets it wrong.”

He questioned the ability of a chairman to remain impartial if he attends Labour group pre-meetings to consider issues due for discussion by the council and if he could face disciplinary measures if he voted against his party.

Coun Joe Makepeace said: “Regrettably it looks as though his independence and unbiased quality is being stifled by an element of political dogma he finds, I’m sure, unable to overcome.”

Coun Denise Richardson added: “You should vote on what you believe is best for Ferryhill, not what someone is telling you.”

But when contacted by The Northern Echo, Coun Campbell refuted their claims.

He said: “The only thing I need to say in response is that the reason I use my casting vote is always for the better of the town and people of Ferryhill, always.”

Council leader, Coun Bernie Lamb, added: “Coun Campbell has been mayor four times, he is very experienced and continues to have our respect.”