AN EAST Lancashire local authority is severing its ties with Russian energy giant Gazprom in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine.

In response to a Lancashire Telegraph query, Blackburn with Darwen Council revealed it manages a contract for several borough schools with the firm which is seen as close to president Vladimir Putin and helps finance his war machine.

The authority's finance boss said it was now intending to end the contract - worth tens of thousands of pounds a year - and find an alternative supplier.

The decision has been welcomed by Conservative group leader Cllr John Slater and Liberal Democrat Cllr Paul Browne.

Blackburn with Darwen is one of several councils across England who use the part-state-owned firm's gas to heat buildings including offices, schools and social housing.

All are now seeking to end their contracts as soon as possible.

On Monday, Blackburn with Darwen Council's Labour leader Cllr Mohammed Khan and Cllr Slater used the borough's budget meeting to condemn President Putin's ‘unacceptable’ and ‘barbaric’ invasion of Russia's neighbouring country.

Cllr Khan has also said the borough is ready to house Ukrainian refugees.

Cllr Vicky McGurk, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council's executive member for finance, told the Lancashire Telegraph: "We share the world's horror at the Russian invasion of Ukraine and sense of solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

“Gazprom Energy is not one of the council’s main energy providers, but we do manage a Gazprom contract on behalf of some local schools.

"We have given notice of our intention to end this contract and we are looking at alternative gas providers.’’

Blackburn with Darwen Council's contracts with Gazprom were worth £128,652 between 2018 and 2021 with £54,368 of the spend last year according to data firm Tussell.

Cllr Slater said: "This is the right decision. It is absolutely the correct decision.

"I think the council made its position on Ukraine clear at Monday night's budget meeting.

"There is no way Blackburn with Darwen Council should have any financial relationship with a firm close to the Russian state and nor should anyone else."

Darwen East Liberal Democrat Cllr Paul Browne said: "This is the right decision.

"Obviously Blackburn with Darwen Council can have nothing to do with Putin and his cronies.

"I am sure the residents of the borough feel the same way.

"Everyone I speak to thinks Putin should be hung, drawn and quartered.

"What he is doing is unspeakable and appalling."