A DEDICATED Labour councillor has been dumped after almost two decades of service – because party chiefs say he has not campaigned enough.

Cheshire County Cllr Tony Hooton has been told by senior Labour chiefs he will not be considered for a role within the party when Cheshire is split into two unitary authorities later this year.

“It’s very frustrating and the whole thing has left me feeling bitter and angry,” said the former Winsford Town and Vale Royal Borough councillor, who has served Labour for 18 years.

Cllr Hooton is also chairman of the Cheshire Fire Authority and Winsford Education Partnership.

“I despair of the Labour Party,” he said. “We haven’t got many friends, we’re not doing well in the polls and I don’t see how the party can afford to kick out somebody at this moment in time.

“Some members of the party have been very supportive – others haven’t said a word,” he added. “I’m extremely angry at Labour and I’m not inclined to do any work for them in the forthcoming campaign.

“I’m keeping my options open but I certainly shall not be joining another party.”