Coun. Julie Cooper has taken over as leader of the troubled party from Coun. Andy Tatchell following its poor showing in Burnley Council elections.

Coun. Cooper, who was elected to the Bank Hall ward in 2005 and re-elected last week, said she was going to do her best in difficult times.

"I recognise this is a difficult and challenging time for Labour, not least because of the recent election results," she said. "But as a hard-working councillor who constantly listens to the views of the people of Burnley, I hope to introduce a new era for Labour in this town."

Coun. Tony Lambert has been appointed deputy leader after Mark Townsend lost his Gannow seat.

Speaking about his removal as party leader, Coun. Andy Tatchell said: "I was pleased the residents of Gawthorpe gave me the largest majority victory I've ever had. I promised them four more years of hard work and that's what I will give them.

"My integrity is intact, my conscious clear and it would be wrong for me to comment on the other issue."