Renewed calls have been made to reinstate Chorley's historic motto to its original 'Beware'

The motto was controversially changed in 1988 to 'Be Aware' because it was felt the original was unwelcoming.

The calls coincide with the appointment of Chorley's new chief executive Donna Hall.

It was 18 years ago that the previous chief executive Jeff Davies -- who retired in December -- proposed the change, which was approved by the full council.

But ex-mayor, Councillor Eric Bell, backs a return to tradition.

He said: "I'm sure there would be overwhelming support from the folk of Chorley to restore the real motto.

"During my time as mayor several people commented that they didn't even know the motto had been changed.

"The mayor's chain and other items still have the original motto on them, so there are inconsistencies. It should never have been changed in the first place." Chorley's coat of arms and motto were granted by charter on July 3, 1882.

Local historian Tony Christopher said: "The coat of arms and motto derived from that of the heraldry of the Chorley family. I'm unsure as to why the word 'beware' was used."

Fellow councillor and another former mayor Ralph Snape said: "I was one of only four councillors who opposed the plans to in the first place and am proud of the old motto.

"However, economically I doubt whether it would make sense as it could be expensive to change stationery, liveries on vehicles and other examples of the coat of arms and motto."

Council leader Jack Wilson confessed he jokingly inquired at the December council meeting whether the first act of the incoming chief executive would be to restore the old motto.

However, he said: "If there was a massive groundswell of public opinion seeking that, then the council could consider it.

"I personally didn't like the old motto. It seemed threatening and negative." Chief executive Donna Hall said she would need to consider why the motto was changed and discuss it with members before any action was taken.