Labour 'open' to alliance talks in Newcastle-under-Lyme

The Labour group in Newcastle-under-Lyme says it is open to discuss forming an alliance after no party gained overall control.

About a third of the seats were up for election and no party was in overall control ahead of Friday's ballot.

Labour is now the biggest party with 24 seats, the Conservatives have 20 and the Lib Dems 12. Thirty-one seats are required for a majority.

The current Tory and Lib Dem coalition would still have a majority.

Labour leader Eddie Boden said he is open to offers of a coalition.

He said: "We could form an alliance because all the Labour party is interested in is the betterment for the future of Newcastle.

"My door will be open.

"If anyone wants to knock on it and come and talk to me then please do so, you're welcome."