A TOP-level investigation of the behaviour of Flintshire's leading councillor will be carried out, it has been confirmed.

The Ombudsman, who looks into alleged breaches of local government maladministration, has agreed to look into claims that

Cllr Aaron Shotton, leader of Flintshire Council and a county councillor for Connah's Quay Central ward, has breached the authority's code of conduct.

A spokesman for the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales (PSOW) said: "I can confirm that the Ombudsman received a complaint that Cllr Aaron Shotton, of Flintshire County Council, may have breached his authority’s code of conduct.

"Following consideration of the complaint, the Ombudsman has decided the matter will be investigated."

Cllr Shotton is also leader of the council's controlling Labour group as well as a high profile member of the Welsh Local Government Association.

A spokesman for Flintshire Council previously told the Leader: "The PSOW is the appropriate route for investigating any alleged breaches of the code of conduct.

"It would be inappropriate for the council to comment any further, bearing in mind that we have a duty of care to any employee who may be implicated or is placed at risk by any allegations."