A NEW chairman has been sworn in at Kirkburton Parish Council.

Clr Robert Barraclough, who represents the Thurstonland/Farnley Tyas ward, was elected at the council’s annual meeting. He succeeds Clr Geof Hickey

Accepting the chain of office, Clr Barraclough said: “As a grassroots organisation the parish council is in a unique position to help and support local communities.

“Between us we have a vast pool of experience and ability, so let’s try to put that to good use together.”

Clr John Hirst, representative of the Lepton ward, was elected to serve as vice-chairman for the year.

Clr Hirst said he was pleased to have been chosen for office and was very much looking forward to working with his colleagues for the benefit of the community in the forthcoming year.