BUSINESSMAN Tony Dobson has been named as the new mayor of Hyndburn.

But Coun Dobson said that while he was relishing his role, he also had a "heavy heart" as he has to give up his position as the borough's deputy leader to take up the job.

The 40-year-old, who is a house landlord, is married to Trish, 33, and has two young children.

At a meeting of Hyndburn Council last night, Coun Dobson was voted into the role.

He was nominated by council leader Peter Britcliffe and received unanimous backing from his colleagues in the Conservative party.

Coun Dobson, of New Lane, Oswaldtwistle, who represents the Barnfield ward of Accrington on Hyndburn Council, replaces Dr Mohamed Rahman as the borough's first citizen.

He said: "I'm very pleased and privileged and looking forward to representing Hyndburn throughout Lancashire and the North West.

Coun Dobson was in charge of regeneration in the borough but will now focus on his job as mayor.

He added: "I'm proud of what I have achieved in regenerating Hyndburn."

He will be replaced as deputy leader by Coun Peter Clarke.