AN East Lancashire local authority has appointed a new town hall boss.

Rob Huntington will take up his post as chief executive of Rossendale Council in April.

He replaces Neil Shaw who left the role in December to become the chief executive of the Greater Manchester Business School at the University of Bolton.

Mr Huntington joins from St Helens Borough Council where he was assistant chief executive.

He started his local government career at Lancaster City Council in 1991 and has held director roles at Trafford Council, Your Housing Group and Sheffield City Council.

Mr Huntington said: “I am absolutely delighted to be appointed as Rossendale Borough Council’s next Chief Executive.

"I’ve worked in local government throughout my career and I’m passionate about the vital role that district councils play in creating the conditions for communities, places and businesses to thrive.

"Rossendale is a valley full of innovation, inspiration, and an ambition to deliver.

"It has a bright future and I look forward to working hard with not only new colleagues at the council, but crucially with partners, residents, and Rossendale’s active communities to make the valley the very best place it can be.”

Rossendale Council leader Cllr Alyson Barnes said: “Rob joins us at a particularly challenging period for local government with finances being squeezed like never before.

“But Rossendale is fighting hard to make sure we can provide the good quality services our residents deserve whilst also bringing about new and exciting projects that things like the Shared Prosperity Fund should allow us to realise.

“We need a chief executive that will roll his sleeves up and work hard for the people of Rossendale and I’m confident that Rob will do just that.”

Cllr David Foxcroft, leader of Rossendale Council's opposition Conservative group, said: "I think this is a really exciting appointment for Rossendale.#

"I think Rob comes with a lot of experience of local government and with some really innovative and interesting ideas.

"I am looking forward to working with him for the good of Rossendale and getting the council back on track."

Adam Allen, director of communities, will remain as acting chief executive until April.