CONTROVERSIAL Councillor Joe Fitzgerald is here to stay - that's his message after he asked his constituents if he should continue in his job, following a string of controversial incidents.

Coun Fitzgerald was thrown out of the Liberal Democrat party after threatening to 'out' several councillors - including a married man - as gay.

He formed his own 'People's Party' and was joined by Coun Tony Jones.

But after a leaflet drop and public meeting in his Larches and Savick ward, Coun Fitzgerald decided that the only option was to stay on.

The meeting was held at the New Larches Club in Carnforth Road.

He said: "Thank you to all my constituents for reassuring me that they still support me in representing local issues.

"I have gained more of their respect by seeking advice from them so the People's Party is here to stay.

"I'd like to state that it is business as usual and that I will carry on representing local needs."

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