A TORY councillor has claimed he is the best politician in the borough.

Coun Fred Slater made the claim after he helped save bus services running to the Waterside area of Darwen.

Rival Lib Dems laughed off his statement insisting people in his ward had turned to them to help save buses running into the area.

Coun Slater told a meeting of Blackburn with Darwen's full council: "Through my intervention I have ensured buses will continue running to the Waterside area.

"People can rely on me. I think I am the best councillor in this Town Hall and will continue doing my job to the best of my ability."

Coun Slater's comment came a month after he admitted drink-driving.

The 63-year-old, of Minster Crescent, Darwen, was stopped on his own street and fined £175 with £60 costs and banned from the road for 12 months.

Labour leader Kate Hollern said: "It is up to Fred to decide how good he his, and for others to do the same."