A LONG-SERVING Chorley councillor is looking forward to serving the residents of the borough after being appointed as the new Mayor of Chorley.

Councillor Margaret Lees, who has been a Councillor for 16 years and currently represents the Chorley South West Ward, will be the new Mayor with Councillor Roy Lees as her Consort.

Cllr Margaret Lees said: “I am extremely proud and honoured to be the Mayor and will endeavour to do my utmost to serve the borough and its residents, to promote the benefits of Chorley and raise awareness and funds for my chosen charities.”

Margaret has chosen three charities to support during her mayoral year – Derian House Hospice, Homestart Central Lancashire and Chorley Mencap.

“I am also looking forward to meeting the unsung heroes of the borough, the selfless volunteers, charities and other organisations.”

“This year is particularly poignant for me as well as many others as it’s the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War and during which my Grandfather was killed at the Battle of the Somme. As Roy was the Mayor at the centenary of the start of that war it is an added honour to be the Mayor at the centenary of its end.”

She takes over from Mark Perks by wearing the mayoral chains.

Cllr Perks said: “In a year that went too fast it was a pleasure to visit and offer my support to so many fantastic Chorley groups, organisations and their volunteers. My two charities Lancashire Mind and Young Addaction are going to benefit from the very generous donations made during the year and that will be spent in Chorley on Mental Health issues and Young People, the final total is still being sorted.

“The year ended with a brilliant concert organised by Parklands High music department and featured as special guest Gillibrand Primary School choir.

“I just finally want to say a big thank you to all everyone who helped me in making it such a proud year for me.”

Meanwhile, the new Mayor of South Ribble – a former policeman, lecturer, and investigator – has spoken of his pride at becoming the borough’s First Citizen. Cllr John Rainsbury was installed as the new Mayor – succeeding the incumbent Councillor Mick Titherington, who has served in the role during the last year.