THE mayor of Pendle has set himself a challenge to lose weight, get fit, and climb Pendle Hill before the end of his year in office in May.

Councillor James Starkie has also tasked himself with helping children who need additional help with funding to learn how to swim, encouraging others to get fit, and has joined forces with Pendle Leisure to help him achieve his goals.

“I do need to lose some weight and get fit, so I have set myself a series of challenges, which I’m hoping people will support me in, either by joining me during my training or helping me to raise money to enable youngsters with their swimming,” he said.

At the launch of the Pendle Hill Landscape Partnership Project in October, the 66-year-old Mayor made it to the top of Pendle Hill, welcoming the Mayor of the Ribble Valley at the summit. They had both made it to the top on quad bikes - but suggested walking it next time.

Cllr Starkie said: “Since then other mayors have said they may do it with me and the Mayor of Burnley has said he will run up. I am also hoping other people will join me in May.”

To support Cllr Starkie in his challenge, go to: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/pendle-mayors-challenge