DESPITE losing three seats, Labour members from Hyndburn remain defiant.

Councillor Graham Jones won the seat in Accrington South which was vacated by fellow Labour party member Wendy Dwyer.

Speaking after the count on Friday, Councillor Jones said: "The public have sent a clear message to Labour. They are prepared to vote for us but we have to be honest and work hard. Obviously it is a difficult night for some Labour councillors and I feel for them.

"I am pleased three Labour candidates were elected in Hyndburn. The public have recognised that Labour members do work hard."

Newly elected Ciaran Wells said he is looking forward to representing Great Harwood.

He said: "I am under no allusions that I have a lot to learn but I hope to develop my skills and be a great representative for the people who had faith in me and voted for me."

And Councillor Miles Parkinson said he was thrilled to retain his seat in Rishton and Clayton-le-Moors. He said: "It has been very difficult nationally for the party bUT many of us continue to work very hard for our local communities.

"We understand people are feeling angered by the expenses situation but hopefully we can get the message to the public that we will work above board and represent the community well at County Hall."

Hyndburn Council Leader Peter Britcliffe, who defeated Dorothy Westell, in Oswaldtwistle, said he plans to build bridges between the district council and LCC in his new role.

He said: "I plan to continue on with my role as council leader at Hyndburn. My main job will be to build bridges with Lancashire County Council along with Councillor Pritchard and the other County Councillors from Hyndburn."

Dorothy Westell said she will continue to work for older people living in Hyndburn and has not ruled out running again in the future. The former Deputy Leader of the council, Doreen Pollit, was unavailalble for comment.