Stoke-on-Trent City Council warns of jobs cuts

As many as 500 jobs could be cut at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, the authority has warned.

On Wednesday, the council released details of £31m savings as part of its 2015/16 budget proposals.

Plans include cutting school crossing patrols and closing public toilets.

Mohammed Pervez, leader of the Labour-controlled authority, blamed central government cuts.

Local Government Minister Kris Hopkins, however, said spending in Stoke had risen since 2010 and that every part of the public sector needed to "do their bit".

The council budget also proposed an extra £2.1m for children's social care and £2m for learning disabilities services.