Former finance director has lost a tribunal claim against Bournemouth BC after she accused her former employers of forcing her out.

Liz Wilkinson, who resigned as executive director for finance in 2014, claimed she was constructively dismissed by Bournemouth BC after raising questions about the local authority’s outsourcing contract with Mouchel.

Ms Wilkinson argued she was suspended before she could investigate the firm any further—an accusation the employment tribunal dismissed.

The council signed a 10-year deal with Mouchel, which is now part of the Kier Group, in 2011.

In a statement, Bournemouth BC chief executive, Tony Williams, said the local authority was ‘pleased with the decision’.

‘On this point, I must pay sincere and grateful tribute to all those staff who gave witness statements to the tribunal and, in particular, those who gave evidence on the witness stand,’ said Mr Williams.

‘The stress suffered by our staff and, for some, the requirement to participate in a protracted and avoidable legal process, should not be under-estimated.

‘It is testament to the strength of character of those individuals that they agreed to give evidence.

‘Finally, I must reiterate that this ruling has found no case to answer from the council on all counts.

'We always had confidence that was the case and are pleased with the judgement received.’