A LEIGH councillor has been found guilty of assaulting a former rugby star.

Leigh East representative Dr Cllr Christine Cottam 61, of Birley Street, denied attacking ward resident Colin Tyrer but was fined £200 at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

The case is believed to have risen as the result of a dog attack while the two were walking their pets in February.

It is alleged Dr Cottam picked up a lead and swiped sixties’ Leigh and Wigan full back and goal kicking ace Mr Tyrer across the face with it.

She then called the police.

Leigh-born Cllr Cottam trained as an anthropologist at Oxford University and the University of London.

Branch Secretary for her ward and a member of Leigh Labour Club she was elected as a councillor in 2007. She is due for re-election next year.

She is a diocesan governor of Leigh St Thomas CE Primary School, a governor of Bedford High School and represents Wigan Council at Higher Folds Community Centre, Higher Folds Residents’ Committee, Leigh Township Forum and the Town Centre Management Group.

A founder member of LASARS (Leigh Asylum Seekers and Refugee Support) she also supports EFIG-Africa, a charitable organisation helping impoverished girls through education.

She lists her hobbies as yoga, oriental philosophy, listening to music and walking her dog.

She was unavailable for comment.

Borough Solicitor Kevin Lawson: “We are aware of the court proceedings and the outcome. We have been notified that the councillor concerned intends to appeal. The level of penalty imposed by the court was such that it does not affect her continuing standing as a member of the council.”