TORIES in Trafford have welcomed a former Labour supporter to the fold.

Luckson Francis-Augustine, who stood as a Labour candidate for Ashton-upon-Mersey Ward in May's local elections said he decided to switch because he was impressed by the way in which Conservative councillors worked in his area.

Mr Francis Augustine said: “I have increasingly felt Labour has no direction or leadership either locally or nationally. Nobody is working harder than our local Conservative councillors here in St. Mary’s Ward, to improve our environment and preserve vital services in the face of difficult budget decisions.”

Tory councillor Sean Anstee, the leader of the authority, said ‘The Labour Party in Trafford has the wrong priorities. It has consistently voted against efficiency savings and cuts to senior management pay and whilst opposing any proposal brought forward, always fail to provide an alternative.

"This is dangerous and would cause great damage to residents and it is great to see hard-working local people like Luckson joining the Conservatives in Trafford."

Altrincham and Sale West MP, Graham Brady added "I’m very pleased that Luckson is joining the Conservative Party here in St. Mary’s Ward, and I look forward to his support in the important campaigns ahead of us."

Cllr Andy Western, the Labour leader in Trafford said: “Mr Augustine’s last act as a member of the local Labour Party was to be refused entry to our panel of approved candidates for 2015, but of course I am sure his defection has nothing to do with self-interest.

"I wish him all the best as he seeks to fulfil his political ambitions.”