Altham councillor and leader of Hyndburn council Miles Parkinson has been recognised for 20 years of service on the council.

Coun Parkinson, who is also a county councillor for Clayton-le-Moors, Altham and Rishton, first stood for election in 1995.

He said: “I never expected to still be here in 2015.

“There have been a few changes in that time and things are a lot harder now but I’m pleased to have been of service to the borough and look forward to being here for a few more years yet.”

Coun Parkinson has had his name added to the Long Service Roll of Honour in Accrington Town Hall.

The roll recognises councillors who have completed 20 years or more of service to their communities.

Coun Parkinson joins Conservative councillor Peter Britcliffe, Independent Dave Parkins and fellow Labour councillor Bernard Dawson on the roll.

As well as his position as leader of the council, which he has held since 2011, Coun Parkinson is also chairman of the Accrington Pals Centenary Commemorations Group and sits on the Lancashire Police and Crime Panel.

He has also campaigned for the reintroduction of the Todmorden Curve linking Accrington and Manchester, and for stops at Rishton and Huncoat to be added.

Fellow ward councillor, Chris Fisher said: “Miles Parkinson is quite simply an outstanding and hard working councillor. He is an inspiration to us all.”