COUNCILLOR Paul White was elected as the new leader of Pendle Conservatives following Cllr Joe Cooney’s decision to step down.

Cllr White said: “I am delighted to have received the support of my colleagues, and would like to place on record my thanks to Joe Cooney who has not only been a fantastic group leader and council leader, but also a great friend.”

Paul, 31, was born and went to school in Pendle. He runs a business and lives in Laneshaw Bridge and represents the Boulsworth ward.