HISTORIC or unlawful? Both were used to describe the decision to elect a district council leader during a heated debate on Wednesday.

Independent members of Teesdale District Council clashed with Labour and Conservative rivals as to whether they needed a figurehead.

Coun David Armstrong wondered where, in the articles of constitution, was there provision for a leader. They had not received the statutory notice, it was not lawful and not appropriate to proceed.

The debate followed a report in last week's D&S Times, in which concern was raised as to whether the independents were forming a group with a view to a takeover.

But Coun Phil Hughes, who was eventually elected leader, rubbished that idea.

"No political group has been formed," he said. "We are merely a cohort of like-minded people who want to move forward on the recommendations of the Audit Commission and independent review."

Coun Newton Wood said all the reports they had had from consultants had criticised their lack of leadership and accountability.

However, Coun Ken Robinson spoke strongly against the move. To elect a leader would be against the constitution they adopted only last year, following public consultation.

"We put forward the modified committee system because it was this council's express wish that we remain the same," he added.

Coun John Salter said they were not trying to do anything illegal or out of order, but there was clearly a requirement for a leader. But Coun Ken Coates said the public who voted for the council as it stood had been duped.

The debate continued to rage, although monitoring officer Mike Dennis had already pointed out that they would be acting lawfully. Tired of the bickering, Coun Madeleine Walton said: "You put up a good fight. We employ a monitoring officer and he says it's lawful. When you've lost, you've lost, that's democracy."

A named vote as to whether a leader should be elected resulted in a 16-16 draw, with chairman Coun Ken Hodgson using his casting vote in favour. It was then argued that holding the election immediately would be unlawful, but Mr Dennis described it as a natural progression.

The 16 "No" voters then refused to take part rather than abstain, with the 16 "Yes" votes electing Coun Hughes, who described it as an historic moment.

He later told the D&S Times that although there was currently no defining role, he would be there to motivate, enthuse, ensure achievement, set challenging goals and targets and be the visible focus of the organisation.

"There's no salary, robe, official car, door opener, general factotum, secretarial support or regalia," he added.