Two of Padiham's longest-serving public figures have been awarded the Freedom of the Town in recognition of decades of service to the community.

John Harbour and Andy Tatchell received the honour from Padiham Town Council during a special ceremony, where Mayor Coun. Phil Turner described their contributions as "exceptional civic service".

The Freedom of the Town is the highest honour the council can bestow and has only been awarded once previously.

Speaking at the ceremony, Coun. Turner said: "It is not given lightly. It recognises exceptional civic contributions to Padiham Town Council, the town of Padiham and the people of Padiham."

John Harbour (left) and Andy Tatchell (right) with Mayor of Padiham Phil Turner.

placeholder image — John Harbour (left) and Andy Tatchell (right) with Mayor of Padiham Phil Turner.

Coun. Harbour was praised for more than 20 years of service on Padiham Town Council and his continued work as a Burnley borough councillor.

The mayor said he had become "the face of Padiham Town Council", describing him as approachable, calm and highly respected within the community.

Among his many contributions, Coun. Harbour was recognised for hosting the weekly Tea and Toast sessions at Padiham Town Hall, championing litter-picking long before it became widespread, and maintaining the banks of the River Calder and other public spaces.

Coun. Turner said: "People know that they can go to him and talk to him and they often do."

Coun. Tatchell was recognised for his extensive public service, including twice serving as Mayor of Padiham and later as Mayor of Burnley, where he was also granted the title of Alderman.

The mayor praised his expertise in planning and human resources, as well as his negotiation skills and experience, which he said had proved invaluable to the town council over many years.

He also credited Coun Tatchell with helping secure improvements to facilities at Padiham Town Hall and highlighted the popularity of his community quiz nights, which he continues to run.

Summing up the pair's achievements, Coun. Turner said: "I prefer to concentrate on the similarities; that both men used their vast experience for the general good and that their contributions were given freely, unselfishly and always with the best interests of Padiham and the people of Padiham in mind.

"Theirs were each exceptional civic contributions."