Former Worthing mayors from rival parties have rejected any suggestion political differences stopped them collecting honorary titles on the same day.

Conservatives Brian Lynn and David Chapman will become aldermen on September 4 while Liberal Democrats Peter Bennett and Bob Clare are to collect their titles at a meeting in October.

Mr Clare, who used to be the town's planning committee chairman, said: "As far as I am concerned, Peter and I couldn't make that special meeting in September but the others had already agreed. It is just coincidence."

Brian Lynn, leader of the Tory party during major changes to how the council was run, said he was not aware of any problems between the four councillors.

He said: "The presentations were meant to be in September for all four but two are not available and couldn't commit."

Between them, the councillors have served the town for almost 90 years.

Mr Clare was a councillor for 28 years, Mr Bennett for 24 and Mr Lynn for 20.

Mr Chapman was Worthing's first executive for economic development.

The title of alderman is given in recognition of eminent and distinguished service to the council.

Mr Chapman stood down as a councillor in 2001 after he was subjected to a "malicious hate campaign".