THE leader of Bolton Council has received the backing of his party to continue in his role.

Labour councillors backed Cllr Cliff Morris at the group’s annual general meeting on Tuesday night.

Earlier this year, a public petition calling for his resignation was presented at a council meeting.

Cllr Morris also strongly denied social media rumours about his future that surfaced last Friday.

Group chairman Stephen Pickup, deputy leader Linda Thomas, and chief whip Martin Donaghy will also continue in their roles.

A Bolton Labour Group spokesman said: “The chairman, leader, deputy and chief whip received support from the group to continue in their roles, taking the town forward with the ambitious regeneration and development programming underway.

“From the new transport hub, to the tremendous transformation of the Market Place Shopping Centre and a string of developments, such as Audi, Skoda and plans for the multi-story car park, bringing derelict sites back into use.

“There is a lot to looking forward to in the coming year, with many of our projects coming to fruition, continued investment and an exciting programme of events set showcase all our town has to offer.”