WARRINGTON Borough Council has said it is 'pleased' that the trial of the council's leader has come to a head.

Cllr Russ Bowden was charged with alleged electoral malpractice and faced three charges of providing false information for a purpose connected with the registration of electors and one of permitting a false statement to be furnished to a returning officer at an election.

The charges were brought against Cllr Bowden in 2021 - he has been the leader of Warrington Borough Council since 2019.

In a statement provided to the Warrington Guardian, a spokesperson for the council confirmed that it is looking ahead to working with the full cabinet in delivering for Warrington's residents.

A Warrington Borough Council spokesperson said: “We are pleased that the trial has now concluded and will continue to work alongside the council’s cabinet members and leader to deliver the services that matter to our residents.”

Cllr Russ Bowden was cleared of all charges by a jury at Liverpool Crown Court on Tuesday, May 2.