THE former leader of Ribble Valley Borough Council has been elected as the region’s mayor for the coming year.

Coun Michael Ranson, who stepped down as leader in 2013, was elected at the borough’s annual mayor making ceremony in Clitheroe yesterday evening.

Coun Ranson, who represents Waddington and West Bradford, has served as the borough’s deputy mayor since last year.

The new mayor said that he will raise money for Ribble Valley-based charities Home Start and Cross Roads Care.

He will be assisted during the next 12 months by new deputy mayor, Coun Bridget Hilton.

Coun Ranson said: “I’m delighted to have been elected as mayor by my peers.

“I’m looking forward to getting out there and meeting people and promoting the good work that they do.”