TWO new councillors have been appointed to Blackburn with Darwen Council's executive board as Labour tries to put the fall-out of last month's elections and defections behind it.

Two vacancies were opened on the panel when Sir Bill Taylor was ousted by voters at the election and education boss Mahfooz Hussein led a revolt to form a six-strong independent group.

His walkout is thought to have stemmed from criticism over the way he has handled education over the last two years - during which two schools have dropped into special measures.

Coun Kate Hollern has now stepped up to replace Sir Bill as leader of the council, creating a vacancy for deputy leader and executive member for leisure.

The leisure gap has been filled by Coun Dorothy Walsh, a Labour member for Higher Croft, while Coun Maureen Bateson, already executive member for social services, takes on the deputy leader role.

Coun Dave Hollings, of Sunnyhurst, Darwen ward, has replaced Coun Hussein as executive member for education.

Coun Mohammed Khan retains his role as deputy leader, as well as executive member for housing and neighbourhood services, and Coun Andy Kay keeps regeneration, while Coun John Milburn is in resources again. Coun Frank Connor keeps citizens rights.

Coun Colin Rigby, leader of the Conservatives, and Liberal Democrats leader Coun Paul Browne both have seats on the board, as does independent leader Coun Yusuf Jan-Virmani.