Paul Hodgson, who has lived in Kirkham all his life, takes over from Fylde Council opposition leader Coun Liz Oades, as leader of the town council.

This week he told the Express of his joy at taking on the task, and what lies ahead for the future of the town.

"It's a great honour for myself and my family, having lived here all my life, to be able to serve the people of Kirkham.

"It's a great honour to be Mayor and to lead the town council, which I will do to the best of my ability."

Paul was born in St Annes Memorial Hospital, and attended Kirkham and Wesham Primary School and then Carr Hill High.

He joined the Merchant Navy and travelled all over the world as an engineering officer.

In 1976 he joined a large compressed air and refrigeration firm before working for a national company as UK and Export Aftersales Manager.

He joined the town council in 1999 as an independent councillor and has held the posts of Chairman of Leisure, Deputy Mayor and Mayor.

He has long been involved in civic life in Kirkham and is now looking forward to how the town can push on.

"My role is to move forward with the Council and to promote Kirkham throughout the North West.

"Kirkham is unique because it's a market town and that's something we need to preserve and build on.

"I also want to support Kirkham and Wesham Business Group, Rural Splash and Friends of Kirkham Parks because I think they do great work."

*Wesham also has a new Mayor. Coun Linda Nulty, who is serves on Fylde Borough as independent representative for Medlar-with-Wesham ward, takes over from Michael Devaney.