PEACE talks are to be held in a bid to resolve the dispute over the Colchester mayoralty.

Traditionally, the most senior Colchester councillor steps into the top job unopposed.

For 2015/6, that would be outspoken Labour councillor Julie Young.

However, the Liberal Democrats put up their own candidate, Theresa Higgins, claiming Mrs Young was too political.

They also suggested she had not shown respect for the role in the past.

The selection of deputy mayor for 2014/15 was due to be discussed tomorrow night at full council.

In principle, whoever is selected becomes mayor the following year. However, Nick Barlow, the Lib Dem group leader, has now taken the issue off the agenda.

He said he wanted there to be more talks in the hope a compromise can be reached.

Mr Barlow said: “We decided it was turning into a bit of a fight.

“We could see the trouble it was causing and after talking as a group, we decided to withdraw the motion.

“I will seek further discussions with group leaders to see if we can come to a compromise.”

Mrs Young, left, who has been a councillor since 1998, said she was determined to continue her campaign to be mayor.

She said: “I think they have acknowledged this is an attempt to usurp me.

“I hope it can be settled amicably. It was not my intention to cause any animosity whatsoever.

“I was simply responding to the invitation which goes to the longest-serving councillors which asks if they would like the role. I continue to hold my position.

I have not changed my mind over the mayoralty.

“I am willing to hear what the Lib Dems have to say on the matter although, at the moment, no official contact has been made.”