20/06/2026
Today was the declaration of Councillor Noordad Aziz as this year's Hyndburn Mayor — a nice tribute to someone who's given 14 years of service to the Netherton Ward in Great Harwood.
It got me thinking: a lot of Hyndburn residents don't really know much about the role of Mayor — what it actually involves, where it comes from, or why it matters.
Accrington has had a Mayor presiding over it since 1879, and Hyndburn has had one since the borough itself was formed in 1974. That's well over a century of someone standing at the front of this community, representing it. There's something powerful in that. It's a thread of heritage that ties our different towns and social groups together, while also pointing forward — a reminder that the borough carries on, election after election, generation after generation.
Unlike the "strong mayor" model you see in London or Manchester, with their directly elected mayors holding executive power, ours is a civic role rather than a political one. Our Mayors are expected to stay politically impartial — and by and large, they manage that with real credit. That's exactly why the role deserves respect, regardless of who holds it or which party they belong to. You can disagree with the person or their politics — that's fine, that's democracy — but it shouldn't take away from the respect owed to the office itself.
It's ceremonial, yes, but it's not just for show. The Mayor chairs full council meetings and holds the casting vote if there's ever a tie, and he maintains order in the chamber so the democratic process can run properly — which in turn helps maintain order outside it too. Beyond the chamber, the Mayor becomes the face of Hyndburn, a blend of all its residents — at civic events, official openings, remembrance services, ribbon-cuttings — championing local charities and helping raise money for causes that matter here. So this isn't just nostalgia and pomp. The role serves a purpose and should be respected for what it is: the continuation of our past, blending with our present and forming our future.
Congratulations, Councillor Aziz. 🎉
