THE leader of Pendle Council has been made an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

Councillor Mohammed Iqbal received the honour for his services to local government.

The award recognises Cllr Iqbal’s significant contribution and service to the community over the past 30 years.

The Nelson resident who represents Bradley ward for Pendle Council is well-known and respected.

As well as leading Pendle Council, Cllr Iqbal is a Lancashire County Councillor, representing Brierfield and Nelson West and serves on the health scrutiny committee.

He is also Chairman of Pendle Vale College and has been active in many community groups over the years.

And as a peer mentor Cllr Iqbal works with councils up and down the country, sharing his expertise and experience.

He said: “This has come as a big surprise.

“Pendle is a wonderful place, full of wonderful people and I want to dedicate this award to the people of Pendle.

“I also want to dedicate it to my father, my role model, who died in 2003 when I was Mayor.”

Dean Langton, Chief Executive, added: “I’m delighted that Cllr Iqbal’s long-standing service has been recognised. It’s well deserved."