THE Mayor and Mayoress of Hyndburn bowed out last night -- and paid poignant tribute to Lancashire Evening Telegraph photographer Jack Barry.

Coun Doug Hayes handed over the mayoral chains to Huncoat councillor Dave Parkins at the annual meeting of the council.

Reflecting on his year in office, which he has shared with his wife and fellow Oswaldtwistle councillor Sandra, Coun Hayes said: "We have had a busy year, attending more than 300 events.

"People have asked us which was our favourite event but each was special to us in its own way. The most touching moment was meeting children from Chernobyl. The one which made us most proud was the visit of Princess Anne in March.

"But every job has bought us happiness, be it attending parades or welcoming people into the Town Hall."

But he added: "Our year in office has been marred by one sad event, the death of the Evening Telegraph's photographer Jack Barry.

"His death was a sad loss. I would to thank the photographers who have attended over the year. They have always treated us with respect, even though they have sometimes tried to persuade us into doing unusual things.

"What has impressed me most has been the interest in the mayoralty. Young and old alike are always interested in the Mayor and it has been an honour to serve Hyndburn."

Around £12,500 was raised during the mayoral year for charity. Coun Parkins, a Labour councillor, has served on Hyndburn Council for seven years.

His mayoress will be former councillor Leslie Jackson.