Tributes from all political parties were paid to councillor Ciaran Wells who will be stepping down from Hyndburn council in May.
Coun Wells, who has represented Great Harwood since being elected in 2010, is stepping down to pursue a career in law.
Hyndburn Mayor Judith Addision thanked Coun Wells for his service to the borough. She said: “I think when Ciaran arrived the average age on the council went down quite substantially.
“But in all seriousness Ciaran has served the council very well, not only in his ward, but also as a portfolio holder for education, leisure and arts, and at county council level.”
Council leader Miles Parkinson said: “I want to thank Ciaran for his dedication since being elected in 2010, it has been a pleasure to work with him. It is a loss to the council but I wish him all the success and happiness in the future.”
Conservative group leader Peter Britcliffe said Coun Wells ‘gave as good as he got’ in the chamber.
Coun Britcliffe said: “He has done a good job here and at county council level. “He always has a smile on his face and I thank Ciaran for bringing a bit of fun to the council.” Independent councillor Dave Parkins added his appreciation.
He said: “I would like to thank councillor Wells for all the work he has done in Huncoat. I wish him all the best.”
Coun Wells, who will be taking the Law Practice Course at Manchester’s University of Law in September, said he would look back on his time on the council “fondly”.
He added: “I’m making a career change and I’m looking forward to moving on to a new challenge. I would like to thank everyone for their support all these years.”
