AN East Lancashire council has appointed its most senior female officer ever, it was announced today.

Donna Hall will become Blackburn with Darwen's executive director (corporate resources) from May 1.

It is the first time a woman has been appointed to the executive management team of the council.

The executive management team is made up of chief executive Phil Watson and three executive directors, who take it in turn to take on the role of deputy chief executive.

There were fears last year that the council, which has won several awards and has been repeatedly praised by the Government for its good work, was suffering from a staff brain drain after several key members of staff left.

They included Steve Weaver, who left Blackburn with Darwen to take over as chief executive of Blackpool Council.

Donna's appointment effectively fills Steve Weaver's vacancy, although the three posts of executive director have been altered to carry out different roles. Donna, 38, has worked for the last two years as the Assistant Director of Policy at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

Her areas of responsibility included developing several projects the council has been praised for, including its Public Service Agreement, which involves the council and the Government working together to improve services.

Prior to moving to Blackburn with Darwen Donna was Strategy and Resources Manager at Salford City Council where she worked for eight years. Her previous employers include Leeds City Council, Bolton Metro and Riverside Housing Association

She said: "I am very excited at the prospect of my new role as Executive Director.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed the last two years working for Blackburn with Darwen - it is a dynamic and stimulating place to work with an excellent team of Members and officers.

"It's not at all surprising we are Council of the Year."