WEST Cheshire is now a Borough by courtesy of Her Majesty the Queen.

The Borough Charter – granted by the Queen to Cheshire West and Chester Council- was collectedŠby democratic services officer Mike Jones on behalf of the new authority.

MikeŠwas invited by the assistant head of the Crown Office to Black Rod Gate at the House of Lords to collect “The Letters Patent under the Great Seal granting a Borough Charter to the Council and District of Cheshire West and Chester.”

And leading councillors were on hand to collect the historic charter and wax seal as it arrived at Chester Station.

The 1972 Local Government Act allows for unitary councils to petition the Queen for borough status which is a medieval concept for a self governing area incorporated by a royal charter.

Chairman of Cheshire West and Chester Council, Councillor John Ebo said: “On behalf of the new council I am honoured to receive this charter granting us borough status.”

“This demonstrates the continuing importance in which local government is held in Cheshire and the council is grateful to Her Majesty for bestowing this honour.”

Council Leader, Councillor Mike Jones added: “We are delighted the Queen feels it appropriate that we should be awarded borough status. It reflects the achievements the council has made to date.”