It is understood Ian Stafford was arrested by police on Friday and taken to Fleetwood police station.

Officers have so far refused to release any details of the crime he is alleged to have committed but have confirmed a 58-year-old man was arrested and released on bail.

Mr Stafford, from Sandicroft Place in Preesall, had recently been appointed mayor for a second time.

Preesall town council clerk Lionel Marr said he received a phone call from Mr Stafford the day after he was arrested.

Mr Marr added: "He offered his resignation as mayor and councillor.
"He sounded quite upset. I understand the matter is in the hands of the police. I have no idea what it is about."

Mr Stafford, an independent councillor for several years, has lived in the village all his life and was described as "a well known character".

His council colleagues would not comment on the matter but did say it was "completely out of character" for Mr Stafford.

It is understood Preesall's Deputy Mayor, Coun Rosina Lawson, is now likely to take over the mayorality for the rest of the year.

Mr Marr's wife, Jill, who had agreed to serve as mayoress to Mr Stafford on civic engagements, is also expected to step down to allow Coun Lawson to choose her own mayoress.

In a statement, a spokesman for Lancashire Police said: "A 58- year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of burglary in a dwelling.

"He has been released on police bail to report back to Fleetwood police station on July 23. He has not been charged."