Tory quitsin disgust atcuts

School crossing patrollers, public toilets, community centres and libraries are all under threat in a savage council savings plan that has caused a senior Tory councillor to quit the party.

Speyside Glenlivet member and planning committee chairman Walter Wilson dramatically walked away from the party yesterday following a row with colleagues.

The shock departure came as it emerged that council chiefs are looking at mothballing every community centre and public toilet in Moray, along with every library other than Elgin.

It is understood the ruling group is also examining plans to axe every lollipop man and woman at schools.

Councillor Wilson branded his former allies “right-wing extremists” as he accused them of sacrificing public safety in the penny-pinching drive.

But last night the Tories fired back, saying Mr Wilson had balked at making tough decisions and questioned whether he belonged in politics.

He said: “I am no longer a Conservative, which was a tough decision.

“But I couldn’t just sit there and listen to extreme right-wing views, and it all came to a head when my colleagues were discussing what they wanted to cut.

“I said that was it.” Authority leader George Alexander last night confirmed a series of “unpalatable” cuts is expected to be made public next month.