NEW mayor Peter Greenwood promised to do his best for the people of Blackburn and Darwen as he leads the borough into a new era.

The former leader of Blackburn Council, and his wife Dorothy, have been given the honour of being the first mayor and mayoress of the powerful new authority of Blackburn with Darwen, which is breaking away from County Hall.

The couple, who are both Labour councillors, invited their family and friends to their investiture at Blackburn town hall.

Three generations of the Greenwood family witnessed the mayor making ceremony along with guests from the business community, police force and local churches.

Coun Greenwood said: "This is a very special occasion and it is right that I share it with my family and friends.

"With me what you see is what you get and I cannot be any different than that.

"But it is important to me that the borough of Blackburn with Darwen included does well."

He added: "It is true that massive challenges lie ahead as this council prepares for unitary status.

"But I am sure with the community's help we can improve services and get more people involved in the decision making process.

"We will endeavour to serve all the community to the very best of our abilities." Coun Greenwood also revealed his wife had chosen children's charities to benefit from her fund-raising efforts over the coming year.

Tributes to the new mayor and his wife came from councillors Maureen Bateson and Jack Fairless.

Conservative leader Jim Hirst also paid tribute to Counc Greenwood, as well as retiring mayor Mary Leaver.

Coun Leaver, who will step into the role of deputy, said: "I have been very proud to have been able to serve the borough as mayor.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my year in office even though it has been a very demanding time."

The retiring mayor revealed her charity Borough Aid has raised £10,000 in the last 12 months.

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