Fear of UKIP brought three-way coalition together at Lincolnshire County Council, says Lib Dem leader Reg Shore

Leader of the Liberal Democrats Reg Shore has confirmed an agreement with the Conservative Party to form a coalition and run Lincolnshire County Council is "all but a done deal."

The Conservatives will team up with the three Liberal Democrat councillors, and a "number" of Independents, led by former Lincolnshire Independent Chris Brewis.

Mr Shore revealed he has been offered a cabinet position as portfolio holder for waste. Mr Brewis is also expected to land a cabinet role along with up and coming Tory Richard Davies.

Patricia Bradwell will continue as deputy leader under Martin Hill.

Mr Shore told This is Lincolnshire: "It looks like an agreement is there between the three of us.

"I am pleased because the threat of UKIP has worried a few of us. I would be scared to death of what they could do in power.

"This is the right decision for the people of Lincolnshire."

Asked whether the criticism aimed at the Tory/Lib Dem coalition at central Government concerned him, Mr Shore replied: "I think whenever you get into power, you are going to be criticised - that is politics.

"We are doing this because no party had a majority at last week's election.

"I am looking forward to my new role as waste portfolio holder and helping the Conservatives.

"If people don't want to vote for me in four years, they won't vote for me."

The coalition comes after the Tories could only claim 36 county council seats at last week's election - three shy of the 39 needed to land a majority.

A handful of Independents, expected to leave the Lincolnshire Independents and three Liberal Democrats will now give the Conservatives a healthy majority in the County Offices chamber.

UKIP will form the official opposition after securing 16 seats.