THE people of Hyndburn are being urged to pump up their pride in the borough.

The new Mayor, retired lorry driver Coun Maurice Cowell, has pledged to promote "Recognition and Pride in Hyndburn" during his year in office.

The 63-year-old Oswaldtwistle councillor was sworn in at the annual council meeting in Accrington town hall last night, with his wife, Margaret, beside him as mayoress.

Glowing tributes were paid to retiring civic heads, Coun Mirza Yousaf and his daughter Shaheen Musaret, as fine ambassadors for the borough who had worked hard to break down barriers and build a community for all.

Coun Yousaf was applauded for the dignity and good humour he had brought to the office of first citizen.

Coun Cowell said during his year as Mayor he wanted to encourage awareness of the history and opportunities within each of the six distinct areas in Hyndburn, stimulating a feeling of community spirit.

He said: "Such a wealth of cultural heritage and recognition of citizenship can draw towns together and provide the basis of a successful future which every citizen, community group and business in Hyndburn should celebrate and build upon."

He said Hyndburn was fortunate to have a rich and varied heritage which every township should be proud of.

He also highlighted the valuable work of community groups in creating a better Hyndburn. Coun Cowell, chairman of Hyndburn police and community forum, has a grown up family and five grandchildren.

Sadly missing from the mayor-making ceremony was his 84-year-old mother, Mrs Nellie Cowell, of Blackburn, who is in hospital after suffering a stroke.

Coun Cowell, who spent 6 years as a gunner sergeant in the Royal Artillery, was a continental truck driver until retiring on medical grounds following an industrial accident.

Coun Ian Ormerod and his wife Pat were installed as deputy mayor and mayoress.

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