A residential trip to a 12th century castle has been criticised by an opposition councillor as ‘frittering away’ money.

A two-day workshop with the cabinet and senior council officers at Surrey County Council at Farnham Castle cost £4158, which equates to £160 per head for accommodation and food.

Hazel Watson, the Liberal Democrat leader of the opposition on the council, said the trip for 26 councillors and officers showed the Conservative administration spending money unnecessarily.

Coun Watson said: "Holding the meeting at Farnham Castle was not a good use of council taxpayers' money, when essential services for those most in need in Surrey, such as respite care and support for voluntary organisations are being cut.

"If the Conservative Cabinet does this regularly the money wasted could increase considerably over time. It sends a message to the organisation that it is acceptable to fritter money away like this."

At the cabinet meeting last week, Coun Watson asked why the workshop could not have been held in a Surrey-owned building to spare taxpayers’ expense.

Councillor David Hodge, leader of the council, responded by saying it was imperative for the leadership team to spend time tackling and determining key issues together.

Coun Hodge said: "I believe for practical purposes it is more efficient on time and energy and is less disruptive on day to day services, if this happens at a location other than County Hall.

"I am sure you will understand this having just spent two days yourself at a conference paid for by the taxpayer."