A COUNCIL chairman's dinner might go ahead without its chairman, after he declined to hold the event in a bid to save taxpayers £2,000.

Coun Newton Wood, the often controversial figurehead of Teesdale District Council, told members on Wednesday that he did not intend to hold the annual event next April because of the council's current poor financial position.

"In view of the reported lack of money and staff resources, I cannot approve the spending of taxpayers' money to wine and dine councillors from other districts free of charge," said Coun Wood.

"To organise such an event is time consuming for staff and makes no significant beneficial contribution to the district."

There was a mixed response to Coun Wood's declaration, with some members feeling the event was traditional, furthering goodwill and public relations, and others feeling that the money might be better spent elsewhere.

"It looks as though our percentage of the council tax will reach double figures next year," said Coun Wood.

"As the cost of this dinner is in the region of £2,000, I feel this money and time will be better spent if directed to improving services to our residents."

But the matter did not end there. The event might still go ahead without Coun Wood as members decided to refer the issue to the policy and resources committee to be discussed as part of next year's budget.

"The vice-chairman, Coun Phil Hughes, offered to stand in if the event goes ahead," said Coun Wood.

"But whatever the outcome, I will not be there."