MAYOR-ELECT Charlie Bullas - amid a disastrous day for his party colleagues in Burnley - can at least console himself with a royal date with destiny.

The veteran Coal Clough with Deerplay councillor was pencilled in to meet The Queen when she visits East Lancashire on May 16.

But first he needed to secure his seat for the Lib Dems, with dire predictions of how his party might fare locally.

Speaking moments after he defeated Labour’s Sam McLachlan, Coun Bullas said: “I had a good majority and I expected to win but it was nerve-wracking.

“But I’m part of a good team in Coal Clough and we work together well and I will work for anyone, no matter what their political beliefs.

“Now I’m looking forward to becoming mayor in two weeks and meeting The Queen in Accrington on May 16.

“I hope I can be a worthwhile ambassador for Burnley and I am sure that my family will be very proud of me.”

In an unusual move, The Queen will meet two mayors that day. Outgoing mayor Coun David Heginbotham will welcome her to the borough before Coun Bullas’ investiture.