THE next mayor of Bolton will be Conservative councillor Hilary Fairclough.

The Astley Bridge councillor who was first elected 19 years ago will be inaugurated as mayor in May.

She will be joined by her husband of 46 years, Don, who will serve as her escort.

Cllr Fairclough said: "I am so proud to have been asked by my fellow councillors to become the Mayor of Bolton. It is such an honour.

"Bolton is a wonderful town with a big heart. I shall do everything I can to promote the whole town and champion the hard work of our vibrant and caring community."

Several charities have already been chosen by Cllr Fairclough to be supported in her role as the mayor.

This includes Bolton Hospice, Fortalice, Bolton Dementia Support and Asian Elders.

She said: "I am looking forward to meeting groups, charities, businesses and individuals from every part of the borough and celebrating their achievements.

"It is certainly not something I could have ever imagined, that the kid from Astley Bridge would grow up to be Mayor of Bolton, and I bet those who know me think the same. I am filled with trepidation but hugely excited too."

The mother-of-two, who has four grandchildren, has lived in Astley Bridge all of her life except for two years when she lived in Darwen.

She attended Clarence Street nursery before going to St Paul's Church School in Newnham Street.

She also trained as a hairdresser at Bolton Technical College after completing secondary school in Smithills.

After working for various hair salons, she went on to manage a family business before joining her husband in running a post office in Astley Bridge.

She added: "Fortunately, my husband Don has agreed to be my consort and he will keep me grounded. The mayor’s office – David, Adrian and Mary – I know will support me all the way, which is hugely comforting.

"I am raring to go. So if you are raising funds, promoting the work you do in the community, celebrating an important milestone or holding a community event please do ask me along I will do my very best to attend and support your event."

Cllr Fairclough has "reluctantly" resigned from the governing body of Sharples secondary school after more than 30 years, including six years as chair.

She has also been chair of the PTA at Sharples secondary school as well as High Lawn School.

The magistrate of 25 years has served on many committees at the council since she was first elected in 2000.

This includes the health, environment, corporate and culture committees.

She has also been chair of environment scrutiny committee and the licensing committee.