CHORLEY'S new mayor donned his robes for the first time this week.

Councillor Ray Parr, 61, of Montcliffe Road, Chorley, has chosen his daughter-in-law Carole Parr, 38, from Coppull, to be his mayoress.

The grandfather-of-two has been a councillor for 15 years and has spoken of his pride in becoming an 'ambassador' for the town. He said: "I am looking forward to being mayor very much indeed.

"My aims are to be a credit to Chorley, to my family and to raise as much for my charities that I am involved in as possible.

"I see it as recognition of years of service for the council and hopefully I am going to be a good one.

"Carole is going to help me and she is very confident."

Councillor Parr, who represents Chorley East ward, has chosen to support three charities: St Catherine's Hospice, Derian House and Age Concern. He said: "Derian House and St Catherine's Hospice are two well-deserving charities in the area and I personally feel very strongly for the well-being of elderly people and the disabled. "

The mayoral chains worn by Councillor Parr were bought in 1887 for the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria after a collection by local people.