TALKS are under way to form a coalition to run Inverclyde Council following the election.

Labour group leader Stephen McCabe has today confirmed he has held discussions with several councillors about teaming up to run the local authority.

But he again ruled out a formal arrangement with the SNP and the Conservatives.

Labour won most seats, with eight councillors ahead of seven for the nationalists and two for the Tories.

Councillor McCabe, right, who was re-elected in Inverclyde East, ran a minority administration during the previous council term.

Following the result on Friday, he got straight to work on trying to shape the next one.

Mr McCabe said: “We have held initial discussions with a number of other councillors about forming a coalition.

“These discussions are at an early stage.

“We have ruled out a coalition with the SNP and the Conservatives.”

The council now has 22 councillors and Labour would need the support of four more to reach 12 and form a majority administration.

Mr McCabe remained tight-lipped about the identity of the elected members he has spoken to, but the Tele understands approaches have been made to long-standing Liberal Democrat Ciano Rebecchi and new independent Tommy McVey.

The three other independents, Ronnie Ahlfeld, Lynne Quinn and Drew McKenzie, could also have a big say in what happens next.

The SNP would need the support of five more councillors to reach the 12 required to form a stable coalition.

But with group leader Chris McEleny ruling out any pact with Labour and the Conservatives there are only five other elected members left to try and join forces with.

It is also unlikely that Lib Dem Mr Rebecchi would support the SNP.

Although they are not members of a political party, the four independent councillors are due to meet today to discuss their positions collectively and individually.