Concerns about Warrington BC's levels of debt have prompted the Government to send in four ministerial envoys.

The council's debt has increased to £1.8bn – mainly linked to its commercial investment programme.

Envoys will ‘support, challenge and advise' the local authority as it works to improve how it is run.

Council leader Hans Mundry said: ‘We look forward to working alongside them positively and receiving their expert challenge and support.'

Local government minister Jim McMahon said he was ‘confident that this package will address the issues identified and is necessary for the council to secure compliance with its Best Value duty'.

Last year the Local Government Association warned the council had to be ‘more realistic' about its finances.