Mayor Brian Newman: Passionate About Pendle

Passionate about Pendle. That’s Brian. He exudes energy and enthusiasm when he talks about the place where his heart lies; his roots run as deep as the land he has farmed on. Nelson was born and bred, and Brian went to live on his grandparents’ farm after his father passed away one week after his birth. “They managed with ten bob a week, a pension, and two kids! “We all worked seven days a week but still went out and had fun. Farming isn’t just a job; it’s a way of life. My grandad used to say the fields were the university of life.”

And despite Brian’s lack of formal education, his grandad’s advice was right; from farming to delivering milk and then running two successful car garages, our Brian graduated from the University of Life with a first, and that’s before he signed up as a local Councillor and became Mayor of Pendle.

With 86 sheep on his land, farming remains an enduring tradition for Brian. “I don’t need an alarm clock; my dog, Glenn, ensures I’m up at quarter to six every morning,” he chuckles.

Brian was appointed Mayor of Pendle in May last year, and his wife, Lynne, joined him as Mayoress. He reflects on the whirlwind that ensued. “It’s been tremendous,” he beams. It’s the best thing that has ever happened to me. It’s something I never thought I would be doing.”

Many will know Brian from his garage business, as well as from his experience of delivering milk and raising sheep. “I didn’t really go to school growing up. I was too busy farming! But tired of asking others for help with repairs, I returned to school at 17 to learn welding. That led me to a diesel course and eventually to open a garage in Glen Way, Brierfield, and later another in Fence, where I now live.

“Nowadays, I help the lads in the garage when they get stuck, but otherwise, I just go in and brew up or bring the butties!”

Transitioning from fixing cars to running for Council was an unexpected turn for him, spurred by a mentor’s encouragement. “It was John David who drew me in,” he explains. First elected to the Council in 1986, John served on the Council for the Fence ward for 28 years until 2014, when Brian was elected as his successor.

When John was diagnosed with cancer, he asked Brian if he would run for Councillor in his place. “I asked if I could think about it. He had poured me a large whiskey, and by the time I had finished, I had agreed.”

Despite being a Liberal Democrat Councillor, Brian has kept politics out of his Mayoral work. “You have to stay neutral, but there are times I’d love to speak out!” he admits with a grin. “It’s a balancing act.”

Brian wanted to help his community during his time as Mayor. “I thought, why not give back? That’s what it’s all about. Pendle has been good to me, and if I can reciprocate, I’d be content.”

Throughout his time in office, Brian has passionately advocated for causes dear to him, including Curry on the Street, youth sports organisations, the Autistic Society, and the Pendle and Rossendale Mountain Rescue. From distributing curry to allocating £1,000 to each of his selected charities from his Mayoral stipend, highlighting these local charitable endeavours has been a significant aspect of his role.

Brian also acknowledges the invaluable contributions of volunteers in the mountain rescue, hailing them as unsung heroes. “They selflessly dedicate their time and resources to aid those in distress on Pendle Hill and beyond. Whether it’s day or night, rain or shine, they’re out there searching. Their efforts have led to the recovery of individuals who have been missing for extended periods, providing closure to families.”

April 1st marked the start of celebrations across Pendle, celebrating its 50th anniversary, and the Council is inviting communities across the borough to get involved. The celebration will provide the opportunity to consider our past, present, and future, with themes of health, nature, climate, and people’s aspirations for their futures.

The Mayor is excited to begin celebrations, and as the borough celebrates its 50th year, Brian reflects on the place he calls home.

“Pendle is a jewel; we’ve got great scenery and great people; we should shout about it more. I love where I am. It’s what I’m used to. I like the strong community we have in Pendle. As his Mayoral term draws to a close, Brian looks back with fondness. “I’ve enjoyed every minute,” he declares. Indeed, his journey from the farm yard to town hall has left a lasting mark on him and the people of Pendle.