A TOP council officer has dropped charges of sex discrimination against Chorley Borough Council and its chief executive.

Group director Carmel Bourne, who has been on sick leave for almost a year, is now pressing ahead with early retirement due to ill health.

Ms Bourne's case was due to be heard at an employment tribunal.

But Chorley Borough Council issued a short statement last week, saying: "Carmel Bourne, one of Chorley Borough Council's two group directors, has withdrawn all the charges and allegations brought by her in the employment tribunal against the council and its chief executive.

"She has applied for early retirement on grounds of ill health. The council, having received a consultant's report and other medical evidence, has supported her application."

Ms Bourne, who was understood to be on an annual salary of more than £50,000 plus company car, was the authority's group director for professional, technical and support services. She has been with the council for more than 10 years. Early last year she made allegations of bullying, sex discrimination and unequal pay against Jeff Davies, the chief executive, and the council.

But following an independent investigation, Mr Davies was cleared of the bullying charge. The tribunal in Manchester was due to hear the other two charges which have now been withdrawn.

Council leader Jack Wilson said: "I'm pleased that the group director has withdrawn all allegations against Chorley and its chief executive and I now look forward to the appointment of a new group director to take over the important role in managing half the council's activities."

Ms Bourne, who said the council statement was a joint statement, said she had no further comment to make.