The leader of Redbridge Council has denied claims that the local authority spent £100,000 of public money on legal costs in relation to the sacking of a housing boss.

Sharon Standell, the former chief executive of Redbridge Homes, was dismissed in 2011 over allegations of gross misconduct related to a pay rise.

She made an unsuccessful appeal against the dismissal with the council and was due to have her case heard at an employment tribunal this summer.

But an undisclosed settlement was reached before that tribunal could take place.

Liberal Democrat councillor and former Redbridge Homes board member Gwyneth Deakins claims to have received information revealing the council spent £100,000 on legal costs.

But Conservative council leader Keith Prince has denied that accusation.

He said: “Redbridge Homes Ltd solicitors costs in relation to the case have been met through its annual recharge arrangements with the council’s legal services.

“The only external legal fees that the company has incurred in relation to the case are counsel’s fees of less than £10,000.

“I have nothing else to say on Cllr Deakins’ claims at this time.”