COUNCILLORS from all political parties gathered in Tyldesley this morning to launch a petition calling on Clr Robert Bleakley to resign.

They were joined by Leigh MP Andy Burnham in the market square to ask residents to sign after Clr Bleakley was found to have called sex chat lines and sent sexist text messages from his authority phone.

The ward councillor for Tyldesley has had his phone removed but has said he will not resign his post despite calls for him to do so.

The petition was launched by Cadence Cafe director Ian Jackson along with members of the public and has received backing from councillors including Jo Platt, Jo Marshall, James Grundy, Edward Houlton, Keith Cunliffe and David Molyneux.

Clr Marshall said: "He has put Tyldesley on the map for all the wrong reasons and it is a shame because there is so much great work going on here.

"It is a disgrace and he needs to go."

Mr Burnham said: "It is not about party politics, it is about basic respect for the people of Tyldesley and the reputation of the town.

"If nothing were to be done that sends a poor message to young people and especially young women.

"On the other hand, Clr Bleakley has had a difficult time and if he needs support he should get it."

To sign the petition online, visit change.org and search for Robert Bleakley.