New mayor's big welcome

THE borough of Rochdale welcomed its new mayor as Councillor Faisal Rana was sworn in to office during a ceremony in Rochdale on Wednesday night last week.

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TOP: Former mayor Ian Duckworth is thanked by Coun Billy Sheerin, the new mayor. MIDDLE: New mayor Coun Faisal Rana with his mother who attended the evening. Coun Rana served as a ceremonial officer in the Royal Air Force. BOTTOM: The new mayor and mayoress Naheed Rana addressed a packed audience.

The appointment was made following a meeting of the council.

The mayoress will be Mrs Iram Faisal and their consort is Mr Basharat Umer.

The event was attended by former mayors, deputy lieutenants, diplomats from across the world, sea and navy cadets as well as other distinguished guests and community leaders as the departing mayor Janet Emsley and consort Ken Emsley handed over their chains of office.

The event was held at Rochdale Town Hall and began with a rousing fanfare played by Rochdale Music Service.

A short blessing was read by Reverend Gill Barnett, Dean of Rochdale, after Coun Rana made a declaration, accepting mayoral office.

After receiving his chain, the new mayor made his first speech to an audience of over 300. He said: "I'm immensely proud and can't wait to get started, raising money for my chosen charities and ensuring every voice in Rochdale is heard and celebrated."