A NEW town mayor has pledged to support business and community groups during her year in office.

Cllr Lisa Reilly has taken over as Westhoughton’s first citizen, with her husband Charlie as consort.

The Westhoughton First councillor will have Cllr Deidre McGeown as her deputy mayor for 2021-22.

Cllr Reilly said: “I am incredibly overwhelmed and humbled to have been given this wonderful opportunity to become mayor of my home town. It really is a huge honour.

“As mayor, I will represent Westhoughton town and it’s residence, with the utmost pride and respect, giving my all to this very prestigious roll.

“I aim to support and promote all the fantastic groups and organisations in Westhoughton, as well as the local businesses, starting to re-open after many months of lockdown.

I’m also looking forward to seeing a number of new businesses opening in Westhoughton too, as this is the time for new beginnings and moving forward positively, together as a community. It’s important to support, shop and eat on our doorstep to ensure their future.”