A SENIOR Bournemouth councillor is under investigation for “unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature”.

A complaint has been made against Conservative cabinet member Rob Lawton, which has been referred for investigation.

Cllr Lawton vigorously denies the allegation.

Members of the council’s standards committee will be told at a meeting tomorrow that the complaint was logged on May 19 and a decision was taken on June 6 to instigate an investigation.

It is alleged he “engaged in unwanted, unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature including inappropriate personal comments about complainant’s appearance, jokes, an implied offer of favours and touching”.

When contacted by the Daily Echo, Cllr Lawton said: “I cannot comment on the complaint because an investigation is underway but I vigorously deny any inappropriate behaviour.

“I am shocked and saddened by the allegation. Anybody who knows me knows that I am not that kind of person.”

Cllr Lawton is cabinet member for housing and environment and is also chair of the Bournemouth East Conservative Association.

He lives in Lombard Avenue in Southbourne and represents the East Southbourne and Tuckton ward.

He was first elected to council in 2007.