THE identities of the five councillors facing possible deselection from Redcar & Cleveland Council's ruling Labour group have been revealed.

All of those told that they will not be recommended for the next phase of selection ahead of next year's elections can appeal the decision, but if unsuccessful will not be able to stand as Labour councillors in future.

They include some of the most powerful and longest-standing councillors on Teesside.

The five are:

* Member of the cabinet and executive for community safety, Cllr Steven Goldswain.

* Chairman of Cleveland Fire Authority, Cllr Brian Briggs.

* Chairman of the council’s Planning Committee, Cllr Brian Hogg.

* Member of the cabinet for corporate resources Cllr Norman Pickthall.

The Northern Echo understands that the fifth councillor is serving mayor, Carole Simms.

Cllrs Pickthall and Goldswain were with their leader, Cllr George Dunning when contacted. Both declined to comment.

However, Cllr Briggs, 75, vowed to appeal.

“It’s a bad business,” he said. “It’s upset my family, my wife and my grandson who is very passionate about politics.”

Cllr Hogg said he didn’t know if he would appeal and “was taking it on the chin.”