Calls have been made for Cheshire East's mayor to 'consider his position' after a clip of Handforth Parish Council went viral.

A video posted on Twitter last Thursday (February 4) showing a chaotic Zoom meeting of Handforth Parish Council has since attracted more than five million views and the attention of media across the UK.

It included Cllr Barry Burkhill, who represents Handforth for Cheshire East and is also the borough's Mayor.

Cllr Liz Wardlaw said: "Many of our residents will have watched, read or heard about the unedifying behaviour displayed by Councillors at Handforth Parish Council which went viral last week. Three men, one of which was our own Cheshire East Mayor, Councillor Barry Burkhill were present at the meeting and behaving badly.

"Cheshire East Council has a Council meeting on Wednesday, February 17. Given the present circumstances one would ask that Councillor Burkhill considers his position, and stands aside as both the Mayor and Chairman of the meeting."

The leader of Cllr Burkhill's independent group, Cllr Craig Browne, who is also deputy leader of CEC, said: "The council has a investigationary and disciplinary process which is currently in train and it is inappropriate [to comment] on any individuals' behaviour until that process has been completed.

"That process is undertaken by an independent panel without councillors and saying anything could be prejudicial to getting a fair hearing."

Cllr Barry Burkhill has been contacted for comment.

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