COLNE Town Council is looking for two new senior staff after the decision of its first chief executive to stand down.

Two years ago Colin Hill took on the job as it took over raft of responsibilities from Pendle Borough.

They included running the town's annual Great Rhythm and Blues Festival and Cycle Grand Prix.

It also administers Colne Town Hall, several other buildings and a series of other seasonal events, markets and festivals.

Now Mr Hill, aged 64 and a former local government officer with Burnley Council responsible for buildings, markets and town centre management, has decided it it time to take a break and spend more time with his wife Linda, six children and nine grandchildren.

The town council is now advertising for a replacement chief executive earning between £24,000 and £26,000 a year for 25 hours a week responsi9ble for clerking the 17-members council and all legal, operational and resource matters.

It is also advertising to fill a new post of financial officer, earning £14,750 and £16,250 a year for 20 hours, to take over financial issues currently outsourced to an accountancy firm.

The council is also seeking to take on a business administration apprentice at above the government minimum national living wage.

The town council has a budget of £687,000 a year part financed by its share of the council tax of £460,000 and the remained coming from sponsorship and events income.

Mr Hill, who lives in Brierfield, said: "I have really enjoyed being chief executive of Colne Town council.

"It has been great fun and very rewarding overseeing it progress as it took on major new responsibilities. I am staying on until mid-December to ensure a smooth handover,

"It is time for me to stand down, spend some time with my wife family, some of whom live overseas, take stock and decide what I do next. I shall miss Colne and its wonderful people."

Colne Town Council chairman Cllr Paul Foxley said: "Colin has made a very significant contribution to the development of the town council.

"He has helped lead us into a new era. Colin will be much missed and leaves big boots to fill."