A COUNCILLOR was recovering at home today after a triple heart bypass operation.

Coun Frank Connor, 57, who represents Marsh House ward in Darwen, entered hospital last week for the surgery but was readmitted a couple of days later after picking up an infection. He is now back home in Duxbury Street.

The operation came exactly 12 months after Coun Connor suffered three heart attacks in one day.

Following that incident, he issued a warning to people to take more care of their health and vowed to make some lifestyle changes.

Coun Connor, a father-of-five and grandfather-of-two, represents Labour and has worked to improve the benefits system. He is also a tenant support officer for a housing association and sits as a JP. Last year he cut out his 25-a-day smoking habit. But doctors advised that the triple heart bypass - an operation to bypass narrowed or blocked blood vessels - was necessary.

Friend and council colleague Dave Smith today wished him well and said: "He has worked really hard especially during the last few years trying to sort out the benefit situation, which has paid dividends."

Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Kate Hollern, also from Darwen, said: "Frank is not the type to sit back and leave his work but he's sensible enough and knows what he has to do now."

Darwen MP Janet Anderson said: "I have known Frank a long time. I wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back in action soon."