Saima Afzal and Maryam Batan have been elected as Blackburn with Darwen's first ever female Asian councillors

Saima who first stood nearly two decades ago was elected in the Central ward alongside two of her Labour colleagues. She picked-up 1174 votes.

Cllr Afzal said: "I started this journey 19 years ago. It's great news for democracy and great news for women everywhere."

"The hard work starts now as everyone will be watching us. I'm here to represent all communities regardless of their votes."

Maryam was elected for the Labour Party in the Audley and Queens Park Ward gaining 1515 votes.