A FORMER mayor of Blackburn has died. Florence Lewis, who was 92, was mayor for a year in 1967 after representing St Michael's ward since 1956.
She made mayoral history when she succeeded a female mayor, meaning two women in a row represented the town for the first time.
Taking over from Edith Railton, she became the third woman civic head in five years.
She was born in Blackburn and lived in Lammack Road. Her family were building contractors in the town.
Miss Lewis was educated at Blackburn High School and Technical College, and went on to be a borough magistrate.
She sat on various council committees, including housing, social services, and health.
On her retirement as mayor, all parties at the town council honoured her service.
Alderman John Stirrup, Conservative, spoke of her dignity, honesty, and having the courage of her own convictions.
She died last week.
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