A ROW has broken out after the leader of Christchurch council was accused of 'belittling' and 'patronising' a fellow councillor.

And Cllr Ray Nottage has been branded disgraceful and arrogant and lacking respect for those who disagree with him.

Cllr Colin Jamieson, the former deputy leader, has called for Mr Nottage to apologise to him following a fractious Conservative group meeting this week.

In the letter, copied to all Conservative members on the increasing divided authority, Cllr Jamieson said he was "deeply offended by the way you belittled me in front of the group.

"Your patronising manner was an insult to me, when I was just trying to assist by filling in the blanks."

He accused Cllr Nottage of ranting and said: "I am very sad but no longer surprised that because you hold the title of leader, a role which is given to you by your peers, you feel you can conduct yourself in such a disgraceful arrogant manner showing a total lack of courtesy or respect to your colleagues when they don't agree with you.

"Your behaviour continues to bring the group and council into disrepute."

It is understood the issue arose out of a discussion over council reorganisation and council tax issues affecting Christchurch.

Cllr Nottage responded to Cllr Jamieson's email, saying he was 'surprised' to receive it.

He had sought guidance from other councillors, he said, over whether he was "guilty" of the accusations.

"Whilst I do understand the sensitivity of your position at present, there was no intent to either belittle you or offend you in any way and that seems to be born out by the reaction from colleagues who were part of the exchange.

"Their view was that a normal exchange took place."

His letter added: "You will not be surprised that I cannot accept your accusation that I acted in any way which would bring this council into disrepute. I can only assume that you are motivated by the pending motion being brought to the council by the opposition."

When contacted by the Daily Echo, Cllr Nottage, who is spearheading plans to see Christchurch merge with Bournemouth said he had responded to Cllr Jamieson's email and had support from other members who were present.

Cllr Jamieson declined to comment any further.

He was replaced as deputy leader earlier this year by Cllr Claire Bath, during a vote which took place while he was recovering from heart surgery in hospital.

A motion of no confidence in Cllr Nottage is set to come to full council in December sparked by Independent Cllr Colin Bungey.