Monday's heated meeting adjourned into private twice, the first time as the council discussed whether Coun Roy Bickerton should remain the mayor of Featherstone following his suspension as a district councillor.

Coun Kay Binnersley said: "In light of the events of last week, which I was away for, I ask the mayor if he feels it would be appropriate if he steps down as mayor of this town council?"

Coun Clive Tennant seconded her comments and said he wanted to discuss why the town council had been shut since December 7 and its last meeting cancelled.

It was agreed to discuss the mayor's role privately as it could affect the council's constitution.

Outside the meeting resident Peter Roper said: "Every time anything is decided in council it's straight into private session.

"They don't pass a resolution or have a vote. I believe it's unlawful."

Community leader Karen Kerr added: "I think it is an absolute disgrace because we should be in there, it concerns the people of Featherstone."

The meeting later sat in private again to discuss items excluded from the public on the agenda under the Local Government Act 1972.

Speaking after the meeting resident Christine Hooice told the Express: "I want to know whether Coun Bickerton is still the mayor or not.

"A lot of people in there said it's not true what he's supposed to have done. I don't know whether it's true or not but if it is he shouldn't be mayor."

Roy Ambler said: "Surely he (Coun Bickerton) has already had his punishment dealt.

"There was no transparency at all and I think this is the thing that's certainly putting people's backs up – it does not look good for the council.

John Jackson added: "I think it was disgusting that we all had to come out – the public needs to know what's going off.

"I heard a rumour that the town council has been closed for a while now.

"Councillors should be working together for the people of Featherstone and the town but it seems like everyone is at loggerheads.

"It doesn't make Featherstone look very good."