A BURNLEY election agent has seen accusations that he committed election fraud thrown out of court by a judge - but two councillors will still face trial.

Talib Hussain, 52, of Colne Road, was charged with conspiracy to defraud the returning officer of Burnley Council amid allegations of vote-rigging.

But the charges were dismissed following an application was heard at Preston Crown Court this week.

Judge Andrew Gilbart, QC, ruled there was not enough evidence to proceed with the case against the defendant. Mr Hussain's solicitor today said his client was overjoyed his name had been cleared.

Edward de la Billiere, of Manchester-based Cooper Kenyon Burrows solicitors, said: "He has always maintained his innocence.

"He has now been vindicated and fully acquitted of the charges. He is absolutely delighted."

Daneshouse with Stoneyholme Liberal Democrat councillors Mozaquir Ali, 43, of Brougham Street, Burnley, and Mansoor Hussain, 57, of Milner Street, Burnley, will face trial next year on the same charge.

All three men were arrested and bailed last October as part of a year-long police probe into proxy voting at last year's local council elections.

The investigation was launched after the large number of applications for proxy votes, which allow people to vote on behalf of others.

Electors can appoint a proxy if they are unable to physically go to the polls, if they are out of the country on holiday or on business, or in the Armed Forces.

A police spokeswoman said: "It would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."