MAYOR Cllr Faisal Rashid has hailed the public for their continuous support during a 'demanding' year with the ceremonial chains.

Labour chiefs have chosen Cllr Rashid (LAB – Chapelford and Old Hall) as Warrington South candidate for next month's General Election.

He will technically remain in the mayoral role until May 22 but has lost his mayoral privileges.

Deputy mayor Cllr Les Morgan will carry out the mayoral duties up until he officially takes over later this month.

Cllr Rashid has thanked the public for supporting him and mayoress Aleeza throughout their term.

He said: "When I took on the role the very first thing I said to residents is 'I will make you proud' – those were my words.

"Me and my wife have worked tirelessly in the past year to keep to our commitment to the people of Warrington.

"I am sure people have seen the work and charity fundraising we have done, as well as the community initiatives we have taken.

"We are thankful to the public for their positive feedback – it has motivated us to keep going.

"I look forward to seeing Warrington's community champions and unsung heroes in the future.

"Any mayor in the future should know it is a very demanding role, they just need to do all they can to be the best they can."

Cllr Rashid's fundraising ball, which has sold out, will still take place from 7pm at the Park Royal Hotel in Stretton next Friday.

All proceeds raised from the event will go to his eight selected charities.