CLEAR the air talks about town centre special school plans were called-off because of a personality clash.

A meeting between education chiefs, residents and Hindsford councillor Robert Bleakley was ditched at the last minute.

It was called to discuss Tyldesley County Primary School building where plans are in hand to house children with educational and behavioural difficulties once a replacement primary building opens.

An education spokesman said: "Robert Bleakley backed out and the two ladies who were to have attended wouldn't come because education chairman Cllr Brian Wilson would have been there."

Explaining their actions, Cllr Bleakley said: "The residents wanted a public meeting but the Council did not.

"I requested a private meeting with the Director of Education but a stumbling block was put in our way. I still want a meeting with Bob Clark or a senior officer and residents."

The Director of Education is currently on holiday and on his return has been seconded to Liverpool Education Authority. A Council spokesman said it was unlikely any meeting with him could be arranged before October.

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