A SENIOR family member at Blackburn’s internationally-famous Graham and Brown wallpaper manufacturer has left the business after his post was scrapped.

Ian Brown is currently on "garden leave" after the company made his job of "corporate and social and responsibility director" redundant.

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The 50-year-old is a third generation member of the two families who founded the firm in 1946.

He has been a director of the globally successful business, which has become an internationally famous "cool" brand in the interior decorating field, since 1991.

The CSR director post will not be replaced and chief executive Andrew Graham will add the role to his responsibilities.

Mr Brown remains a shareholder.

Graham and Brown was founded in 1946 by friends Harold Graham and Henry Brown, grandfathers of Andrew Graham and Ian Brown.

The founders’ sons David Brown and Roger Graham later took on the business before handing operational control to the third generation.

Mr Graham issued a statement to staff which said: “As with other successful, forward-thinking businesses, over the past two years Graham and Brown has had to think differently and adapt and change.

“I write to advise you that the role of CSR Director is being made redundant and Ian Brown will be serving his notice on ‘garden leave’.

“While this decision has been difficult, I would like to thank Ian for the professional way in which our discussions have taken place.

“Furthermore, the board and I would like to put on record our sincere thanks to Ian for his service as a director.

“It is greatly appreciated, as will be his ongoing support as a shareholder in the business.

“The role will not be replaced.

“I will be responsible for co-ordinating all CSR activities.

“Our thanks to Ian for his service as a director.

“It is greatly appreciated, as will be his ongoing support as a shareholder in the business.”

Mr Brown was not available for comment.

East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce chief executive Mike Damms said: “This is obviously a decision for Graham and Brown to take about the future of their business.

“Ian Brown has been, and continues to be a significant figure in the town’s business community.

“He has been a great servant of the company and East Lancashire.”