Caerphilly CBC chief executive Christina Harrhy is ‘not in work at present' amid alleged tensions with Labour leader Sean Morgan, The MJ understands.

It is believed an independent investigation into the conduct of Cllr Morgan and difficulties in his relationship with Harrhy was launched in April.

The council said it ‘would not be appropriate' to reveal how long Harrhy had not been in work or the reason for the absence because it had a ‘duty of care to maintain confidentiality in regard to this matter'.

Welsh Local Government Association chief executive Chris Llewelyn declined to comment while a Welsh Government spokesperson said: ‘These are matters for the council.'