Huge fire-breathing dragons, Bedford's lack of virgins, and how councillors manage to sleep at night were just some of the topics that sparked discussion as elected members gathered for a full meeting of Bedford Borough Council.

Mayor of Bedford Dave Hodgson and deputy mayor Charles Royden were delivering reports on their executive portfolios before a meeting at Borough Hall last Wednesday.

But Mr Royden's question and answer session on his environment brief provoked a flurry of questions which frayed tempers in the council chamber.

The subject of the proposed Covanta incinerator, which would burn waste from across the county at a site in Stewartby, inspired Mr Royden's ire.

He warned council colleagues: "The incinerator is like a huge fire-breathing dragon that must be fed and demands that the village people bring out their virgins.

"The incinerator would actually be bigger and taller than the BT Tower."

Councillor Anita Gerard asked if there were any cheaper waste disposal options to put on the table.

And she was told that the council was already looking into more environmentally sustainable options.

Councillor Tom Wootton asked if, despite opposing the incinerator, the council would go on to use it anyway.

Mr Royden said that although the executive was opposed to using the incinerator, every council member would have a vote on the controversial issue.

But Councillor Nicky Attenborough raised another concern: "I would actually argue that there are not enough virgins to feed the dragon, unless there is something that you can say to convince me otherwise."

Councillor Royden summarised his position saying: "I have said quite clearly how I feel about that and there is no one more against the plans than me, except the mayor."

Later in the meeting the mayor presented the borough's council tax increase of 2.3 per cent for approval.

He said: "I would like to thank all officers and councillors, except the Conservatives who wouldn't join the debate despite their promises during the mayoral campaign."

Mr Hodgson's comments provoked cries of "Shame on you," from Conservative group leader Carole Ellis.

She then turned to fellow Conservative Mr Wootton and said: "Don't worry, we'll sleep tonight."