Labour will run Stockport council this year having reached an agreement with party chiefs following last week's election night deadlock with the Liberal Democrats.

The group - now led by Coun Elise Wilson - will form the executive while the Lib Dems are to control more town hall committees in order to reflect the new political balance at the authority.

It is understood all council group leaders have been in discussions since the Liberal Democrats made five gains at the local election to draw level on 26 seats with Labour.

And they have now come to an agreement that Labour will be at the helm of the council over the coming municipal year.

However this will be as a minority administration with no formal deal - such as a confidence and supply arrangement - with any other party.

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Liberal Democrat deputy leader Lisa Smart said her group had taken into account the fact new Labour mayor Laura Booth would have the final say in any vote.

She said: "I think it's the political reality of where we are given the numbers and the mayor's casting vote.

"I think this year will be an interesting one - politics is always interesting in Stockport - but I think it will be an interesting one given how finely balanced the council is."

The Liberal Democrats won 35 per cent of the vote at this year's local election, while Labour - who made just the one gain in Manor ward - weighed in at 28 pc.

Coun Smart added her group was 'delighted' about the support which saw them take four seats from the Tories and another from independent Kenny Blair.

"We look forward to serving the residents who put their trust in us last week." she said.

Coun Elise Wilson was appointed as the successor to Alex Ganotis - who stood down to spend more time with his young family - at Labour's AGM last week.

However despite no longer being a councillor, Mr Ganotis remains leader of the council until the new crop of elected members are sworn it at the annual council meeting on May 21.

The Tories have appointed Mike Hurlestone as their leader, following the retirement of Syd Lloyd.

A formal statement from Stockport Labour Group is expected later today.