DROITWICH MP Peter Luff has called on a leading Spa councillor to resign over the social services financial crisis.

It was revealed on Friday that Worcestershire County Council's spending on social services had spiralled out of control.

Just five months into the financial year, the department is facing a huge overspend unless drastic cuts are made.

Social services director Peter Gilbert will be investigated by the council. The deficit could hit £4.6m by March.

Mr Luff wants the department's portfolio holder - Cllr Peter Pinfield (Lab, Droit.Town) - to stand down.

Cllr Pinfield admitted the crisis will hit hospitals and many people may have to wait longer for services.

He told the Advertiser he would not resign and those responsible will be held accountable.

"The most important factor is that vulnerable people will not be at risk," he said.

"This has got to be managed and controlled and I do not wish to run away from that responsibility."

Tory MP Mr Luff, who represents Mid-Worcestershire, said: "Cllr Pinfield is a decent man who serves his county with integrity and compassion.

"But he has failed in the crucial task held for several years - the oversight of social services.

"He says those responsible will be held accountable.

"He is responsible and he must demonstrate his accountability by resigning. It's the decent thing to do."

The crisis has been blamed on the rising cost of children's services.