A MAYOR'S first day in the role was marred by a mystery protester placing banners around town calling for him to quit.

Coun Tony Dobson, a Conservative councillor for the Barnfield ward in Accrington, became Mayor of Hyndburn at a ceremony on Saturday morning at Accrington Town Hall.

But around the time of the ceremony, banners appeared on the railway arches in the town centre, bearing a defamatory message and reading "mayor Dobson out".

Two more appeared on the same spot during the afternoon. Police removed each one.

Officers are investigating the incidents, although they said they were not yet sure an offence had been committed by the protest banners.

It is unclear who is behind the stunt or what allegations they were trying to make against Coun Dobson.

Coun Dobson was unavailable for comment when details of the banners emerged.

But Coun Peter Britcliffe, the Conservative leader of council, said the banners had not spoiled the mayor-making festivities.

He said: "We had a wonderful day. The banners have not stopped anyone from enjoying themselves.

"If anyone has any sort of grievance against Coun Dobson they should not hide behind the cloak of anonymity. It is cowardly."

Insp Andrea Bradbury said: "Three banners placed in archways in Accrington were recovered by police and passed on for forensic examination.

"We are reviewing CCTV footage. There has been no absolute offence but it is a matter of concern and we are making further inquiries."

Coun Dobson, 40, a house landlord, is married to Trish, 33, and has two young children.

He replaced Dr Mohamed Rahman as first citizen.