A HYNDBURN councillor died last night after losing his seven month battle against cancer.

The flag at Accrington Town Hall was today flying at half mast in honour of Coun Paul Taylor, of Banbury Close, Accrington, who represented the town's Milnshaw ward.

Coun Taylor, who was in his 40s, became a Conservative councillor last May after a dramatic eight-vote victory over former Labour mayor Ian Ormerod.

Coun Taylor's death has not affected the balance of power on the council and his seat will be filled at next May's elections.

It is the second tragedy to hit the Milnshaw ward within two months after the death of Labour councillor John Wells last December.

Paying tribute to Coun Taylor, Council leader Peter Britcliffe said today: "He was elected to the council last May and had terrific election result in beating the former mayor Ian Ormerod. Sadly he became ill just after being elected.

"He was very keen and enthusiastic but unfortunately was struck down by illness and was unable to fulfil the role he wanted to.

"Our sympathy goes out to his family at this time. It is a very sad loss of a young man. It is a double tragedy for Milnshaw following the death of John Wells."

Councillor Wells died after contracting pneumonia shortly after Christmas while visiting his family in Kent.

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