FORMER Rossendale Mayor and Honorary Townsman of Whitworth Jimmy Grogan has died at the age of 76.

The long-serving councillor, who stood down earlier this month after 30 years of continuous service on Whitworth Town Council, died in Fairfield Hospital from a heart attack after suffering breathing difficulties at his home in Shawforth.

Mr Grogan represented Whitworth as a Rossendale Borough Councillor for 15 years and also served as Rossendale Mayor in 2001.

Just two weeks ago, at Whitworth’s annual parish assembly, he was presented with a special certificate to commemorate his devoted services.

Coun Thomas Aldred, of Whitworth Town Council said: “Jimmy was a wonderful person who never let anything get him down.

“He was a hugely popular character who will be remembered mostly for his great sense of humour and dedication in making Whitworth even better for Whitworth people.”

The former lorry driver first stood as a town councillor in 1981 and he played an instrumental role in setting up Whitworth’s town twinning with German town Kandel in 1966.

The father-of-one was an avid music lover and the proud president of Whitworth Vale and Healey Band.

During his 30-year career as a town councillor, he served as Mayor of Whitworth three times before eventually being presented with the title of Honorary Townsman of Whitworth in 2008.

Mr Grogan leaves behind his wife of 50 years Lois, son Stuart, daughter-in-law Debra and twin grandsons Will and Harvey, three.

Rossendale Council Leader, Coun Alyson Barnes said: “Jimmy was an absolute gentleman. I have known him since the start of my council career.

"During all that time whatever he did, whatever he said, the best interests of Whitworth were always at its heart.

"My sympathy and warm wishes go to Lois and their family”.