Sad passing of former BwD Mayor

Condolences have been shared following the sad news about the death of former long-serving Blackburn with Darwen councillor Colin Rigby.

Colin, who was aged 81, passed away on the evening of 25 April in Bolton Hospice, a charity he supported when he was Mayor.

Colin served as a borough councillor for 30 years. He was first elected to Blackburn with Darwen Council in May 1991 as a Conservative councillor for the North Turton ward. He later represented North Turton with Tockholes and West Pennine wards, until 2021 when he made the decision to stand down.

Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:

It’s very sad news. We have been aware that Colin has been in failing health for some time.

He was a worthy political opponent and a great representative of the Council, the borough and his ward, and he will be long and well-remembered.

Throughout his 30 years on Blackburn with Darwen Council, Colin Rigby served on various committees, including in roles as Vice Chair of the Policy and Resources Committee, and the Executive Member for Resources.

He was Leader of the Conservative Group for many years and served on the Executive Board as Leader of the Opposition.

Colin served as Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen during 2017/18, using his Mayoral year to raise money for his charities East Lancashire Hospice, Bolton Hospice, Eve Appeal and Royal Navy & Royal Marine’s Children Fund.

Denise Park, Chief Executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council, added:

Colin was one of our longest serving councillors and also Leader of the Council between 2007 and 2008. We are grateful for his service to the borough.

Our thoughts are with those closest to him. We will officially pay tribute to him at the next Council meeting.