A Staffordshire Moorlands District Councillor sparked confusion with an unusual comment at a recent meeting of the authority.

The council's Moorlands Partnership Board met this afternoon (Tuesday 26th July) to discuss several agenda items including a summary of its recent projects and proposed grant awards.

The first item on the agenda for the beginning of the meeting was the appointment of a new chair and vice chair of the board.

Conservative Cllr Ben Emery, representing Leek West. was appointed as chair, and Independent Cllr Linda Malyon, representing Ipstones, was appointed as vice chair.

After the pair were appointed, Conservative Cllr Mike Worthington, representing Cheddleton, reportedly commented: "No kissing and cuddling, I know you like blondes."

Staffordshire Local Democracy Reporter Richard Price, who was in attendance at the meeting, commented: "A less than auspicious start to this afternoon's Moorlands Partnership Board meeting.

"After appointing Cllr Ben Emery as chair and Cllr Linda Malyon as vice-chair of the committee, Cllr Mike Worthington quips: 'No kissing and cuddling, I know you like blondes.'

He added: "Cllr Malyon appears to take it in her stride. Nevertheless others in the room note that the meeting is being webcast.

"Council leader Cllr Paul Roberts scolds Cllr Worthington, whispering: 'You'll get shot one of these days.'"

Cllr Worthington has been contacted for comment.