BBC NEWS | UK | England | Merseyside | Bradley survives leadership bid

Liverpool City Council leader Warren Bradley has successfully fought off a Liberal Democrat leadership challenge.

The councillor had faced a challenge from Richard Kemp and Paul Clein, two long-serving Lib Dem councillors.

It followed a disappointing night in the election, with the party losing three seats and only holding on to power after signing up an independent.

But Mr Bradley emerged from the ballot with more than half of the vote, securing his position as leader.

"It's onward and upward," Mr Bradley told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"I secured well over 50% of the vote last night and I am very proud this morning to be the leader of Liverpool City Council."

The challenge was launched by councillors who felt the party needed a change of direction, and Mr Bradley said that change was on his agenda.

"I think any political party, or any business, has to redirect itself and I think after 10 years it is time for a redirection."

Mr Bradley said he would be selecting a new cabinet next week, and promised to bring new people in to "re-energise" and take the city forward.

He added: "There's lots of other challenges in this city and it would be inappropriate for me to get caught up in what has happened."