TWO of Preston's most prominent councillors have became embroiled in a bitter war of words.

Councillor Ken Cole is demanding an investigation after claiming that controversial councillor Michael Moulding has been using the council's secretarial staff, stationary and postage to help lobby on behalf of the Frenchwood Allotments Society, of which he is secretary but which doesn't fall within his Moor Park ward.

Coun Cole, whose Avenham ward includes Frenchwood, says Coun Moulding's lobbying is a blatant conflict of interest.

He said: "Coun Moulding should not be allowed to use Town Hall facilities to lobby on behalf of the Frenchwood Allotment Society.

"This is lobbying at Preston's tax payer's expense.

"He is using secretarial support, stationary and postage. I want to know how much this has cost us.

"Frenchwood Allotment Society can afford to pay for its own stamps, secretarial support and stationary.

"If this is allowed to continue, then all councillors should be allowed to lobby for organisations of which they are members."

But Coun Moulding is unrepentant, blasting Coun Cole's actions as wicked. He said: "I am well-known within the allotment movement in this town. I assist, voluntarily, the site in Frenchwood. Therefore, I do use Council services to fight for all the allotment holders in this town.,

"I am not ashamed of this fact. Coun Cole's attack is wicked and is tantamount to pure vindictiveness."

Jim Carr, the borough's Town Clerk, said: "I have received no evidence that any councillor has acted outside what can be deemed to be reasonable terms within their office."

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