COMMUNITY worker Councillor Zamir Khan has promised to improve community cohesion during his year as Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen Council.

Coun Khan, 44, a father-of seven who has been a member of the Labour party since 1989, said he wanted to build bridges between communities.

He will take over from Coun Karimeh Foster.

Coun Khan said: “I feel privileged, honoured and very excited.

“Karimeh has done a lot for the community. I am looking forward to carrying on her good work. She deserves a bit of a rest now.” The former shopkeeper will be accompanied by his wife Rahat Sultana Khan on official duties but his daughters Nahila, Bushra and Sonia Khan, will also step in as mayoress on some occasions.

He said: “My wife and daughters will be sharing the responsibility. There will be a few extra hands.

“I am a bit nervous but I am looking forward to my year as mayor. I think previous mayors have been outstanding in their own right. I hope I am as successful.

“And I believe I am the first Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen to have a beard!”

The mayor of Blackburn with Darwen attends nearly 500 engagements during the Civic year.

Coun Khan has chosen the East Lancashire Hospice and Lancashire children’s charity Miles of Smiles as his charities for the year.

Councillor Salim Mulla was also appointed deputy mayor of the borough at last night’s council meeting.

The former naval engineer said: “I’m delighted and I’m looking forward to my duties. I will give Zamir my full backing.”

Coun Mulla is married with five children.