MILKMAN Peter Swainston was yesterday (Wednesday, May 15) installed as the new mayor of Burnley.

A Labour councillor since 1976, he takes over from Councillor Arthur Park, who now becomes deputy mayor. Mr Swainston's sister-in-law, Sheila, becomes mayoress.

At yesterday's annual meeting of the council, Councillor Stuart Caddy said: "Peter is not one for political squabbling.

"He believes councillors should simply work for the people of the town, something which he has proudly done since first becoming a councillor in serving Coal Clough ward and more recently Barclay Ward.

"He understands the needs of the people he represents for he is one of them."

In 1990 he was the North West's milkman of the year and runner up in the national Gold Top Award.

Mr Swainston plans to support the local branches of the Macmillan Nurses, Help the Aged and other voluntary groups and charities during his year in office.

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