Leader of the Council accused of 'cronyism' after Danczuk's caseworker appointed as his Personal Assistant

Councillor Richard Farnell

Councillor Richard Farnell, the Leader of Rochdale Borough Council, has been accused of "cronyism" after it was revealed that Elsie Wraighte has been appointed his new Personal Assistant - prior to her recent appointment, Ms Wraighte worked as a caseworker in Simon Danczuk's office.

Asked where the job was advertised, how many applied, how many were shortlisted and how many were interviewed, a spokesperson for the Council said: "A permanent replacement has not been recruited. A temporary replacement has been recruited through agency. The job will be advertised at a later date."

Asked on a number of occasions which agency, the Council has failed to answer.

Councillor Andy Kelly said: "I am absolutely disgusted by this news. I knew cronyism existed in Simon Danczuk's office but it now appears to be happening at our council too.

"Everyone knows that Councillor Richard Farnell and Danczuk are great mates and are often spotted together in various watering holes in Rochdale.

"I am further disgusted that somebody with no Local Government experience has been appointed to such a key role without it being advertised. It stinks. The Council's recruitment policy is clear, positions should be advertised and in this case it hasn't.

"I will be demanding an urgent meeting with the Council's Chief Executive Steve Rumbelow for an explanation.

"The last time I saw this woman was at the local election count - hugging and celebrating with victorious Labour councillors.

"If, as it appears, this woman has been given this highly paid role, I will be calling for the resignation of Farnell, not just as council leader but as a councillor. He is bringing our borough into disrepute. How can anyone have any confidence in open and transparent government when this is going on?"

Ms Wraighte found herself in the national news in December last year when The Sun reported that Mr Danczuk cited a kiss with her at a Christmas Party as the reason he was dumped by his then girlfriend, Claire Hamilton.

Ms Wraighte was reported as denying the kiss happened.

https://www.thesun.co.uk/archives/news/923332/pictured-aide-25-simon-danczuk-claims-to-have-kissed-that-led-to-him-being-thrown-out-by-girlfriend/

Ms Wraighte declined to comment on her appointment.

Councillor Farnell ignored the invitation to comment.