COUNCIL leaders have set aside £10,000 to help solve the traffic chaos which has overshadowed some walking days and festivals.

But, a row has broken out among political parties over who is to blame for the problem.

Both Grappenhall Walking Day and Glazebury Gala have been forced to cancel their processions after they were told they would have to stump up the funding for road closures.

Police and council officials have said they have not been able to provide the funding needed for every event.

Speaking at a meeting of the full council on Monday evening, council leader Clr Ian Marks, said they have set aside the money with immediate effect.

Clr Marks said: "Sadly this is too late for many events but I hope that even at this late stage, the money can be used to resolve some of the difficulties."

He also said that, while in opposition, they had raised concerns over the issue with the then ruling Labour party who he claimed were unwilling to make decisions and apologised to event organisers for the confusion caused.

Labour disputed his claims though, and said they had taken the issue very seriously and that most of the blame lay with the police.

He added: "There may have

to be some compromises in the future. But, I give notice to everyone in the town but particularly to event organisers, that we will have clear guidelines agreed by the autumn."

The council leadership also announced that £40,000 has been set aside for free summer swimming for youngsters after the success of last year's project.