Long-serving councillor Damian Talbot has stood down as chair of Blackburn Constituency Labour Party after 17 years in the post.
He has been replaced by Bastwell and Daisyfield ward’s Cllr Shaukat Hussain.
Mill Hill and Moorgate ward’s Cllr Talbot resigned at the constituency party’s annual meeting and Cllr Hussain was elected to take over.
The change followed the surprise defeat of former Blackburn Labour MP Kate Hollern – whose office Cllr Talbot ran – by Independent candidate Adnan Hussain in July’s general election.
Mr Talbot has since transferred to work for new Hyndburn Labour MP Sarah Smith, who defeated Tory Sara Britcliffe.
Blackburn with Darwen Council public health boss Cllr Talbot said: “Having recently taken up a position in the office of Sarah Smith MP, I felt it an appropriate time to step down as chair of Blackburn Labour Party in order to devote my attention to supporting Sarah and working with our team in Hyndburn.
“It has been an absolute privilege to be the chair of Blackburn Labour Party for over 17 years – a position which I held with the utmost respect and dedication.
“Whilst there have been highs and lows over the years I have been glad to make many lifelong friends.
“I am grateful to all of my colleagues for their efforts in maintaining the strength of Blackburn Labour Party and whilst this year has seen new challenges I’m confident that the local party remains as strong as ever – this was certainly evidenced by the large attendance at October’s annual meeting.
“With the challenges ahead I am glad that there are a number of members with the energy to carry on the important work of promoting Labour values in Blackburn.
“My successor, Shaukat Hussain, has years of experience as a party member, union representative and borough councillor, and will undoubtedly bring a new vision to the party.
“I will continue to serve Mill Hill and Moorgate as ward councillor, and as the executive member for housing and health and chair of the Blackburn with Darwen Health and Well-being Board.”
Cllr Hussain, the borough’s assistant executive member for the environment, said: “Our diverse communities make Blackburn stronger.
“As chair, I am committed to strengthening our Labour Party values and building a more dynamic and inclusive Blackburn Constituency Labour Party, one that is dedicated to changing Blackburn for the better.
“I believe that bringing change is our duty – not only to address the immediate issues in our community but to lay the groundwork for a stronger future.”
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