THE Ribble Valley's 29th mayor is a former candy store proprietor, whose Whalley shop was a magnet to anyone looking for a cup of tea and chat.

People's friend Joyce Holgate received her mayoralty at a ceremony in the Ribble Valley Council Chamber, Clitheroe.

The Tory councillor is honorary president of Whalley and District Chamber of Trade and was a major force behind the installation of the village's CCTV.

She was proprietor of the Abbey Candy Store in King Street, for 15 years, where she held open house to the local police, press, councillors and villagers.

She was proposed by Councillor Charles Warkman and seconded by Councillor David Smith, who praised her dignity, humility and humour.

"She is held in great affection by villagers and if she does for the Ribble Valley what she has done for Whalley, then we are in for a great year," he said.

Councillor Holgate, a farmer's daughter from Sabden and her consort, friend Norman Atty, received their chains of office from outgoing mayor Gwen Pye.

Councillor Holgate said she was looking forward to representing the Ribble Valley during the Queen's Golden Jubilee year.

Sabden Councillor Frank Gough and his wife, Karen, were installed as Deputy Mayor and Mayoress.

Councillor Gough is a former Welsh scrum half, keen bowler and chess player.

He was proposed by Councillor Frank Dyson and seconded by Councillor Margaret Sutcliffe.

Karen Gough is a keen fell runner and member of Clayton-le-Moor Harriers.