A FORMER miner has been officially voted in as the new Mayor of Padiham.

Padiham councillor Bob Clark, who spent a year as deputy mayor, was the unanimous choice of councillors at a meeting of Padiham Council.

Councillor Clark, 61, was born in Padiham and attended St Matthew's and St Leonard's schools. He worked as a miner until the local pits closed and then set up his own business as an industrial dismantler.

He replaces Granville Lord as Mayor.

Nominating Bob Clark, councillor Christopher Smith, said: "I believe that Bob will make an excellent Mayor and bring as much dignity and respect to this prestigious position as the previous Mayor.

"Bob Clark has been an extremely hard working councillor devoting many hours, including time lost from work, to the people of Padiham.

"His kindness and generosity to various groups, both charitable and in the promotion of Padiham itself, merits his nomination and I look forward with my fellow councillors to giving every support for a successful mayoral year."

Councillor Mark Jinkinson was voted in as deputy Mayor for 2003 to 2004.

Padiham town clerk Liz Bolton said: "Bob is a very caring and considerate man and Padiham and its people are extremely important to him.

"I am delighted he's been selected as Mayor because I know that he will use his fair judgement and integrity to assist in any way he can for the benefit of Padiham.

"I will be delighted to work with him in his capacity as Mayor."

Councillor Clark said: "I am obviously looking forward to this year. Granville Lord and Elizabeth Bolton and the whole council have been very supportive.

"I am looking forward to serving the people of Padiham."

Former Mayor Granville Lord is on holiday and was unavailable for comment today.