THE new Mayor of Burnley has called for young people to take part in disciplined activities in a bid to reduce anti-social behaviour.

Former postman Peter McCann, who was installed as mayor of Burnley yesterday afternoon, is hoping to raise £20,00 to £25,000 for Burnley-based charity 'Action for Autistic Spectrum Disorders' (ASD).

The 47-year-old, who was born in Bank Hall Hospital, spent his youth in the scouts and sea cadets, joining the Territorial Army at 17 and travelling the world with them.

He said: "It concerns me when the youths of today say there is nothing for them to do, when uniformed groups like these are still there for them and offer an alternative to standing on street corners.

"While these groups might not be the answer for all of them they can offer something to some.

"These activities involve discipline and require the youths to learn something.

"It won't stop anti-social behaviour but the more we do the more it can help."

The pension service trainer will be helped by two mayoresses rather than one - his mother Mary McCann and 17-year-old daughter, Jenny McCann, who is studying mechanical engineering at Nelson and Colne College.

He said: "Jenny was interested in being involved with her dad and asked if there was any way she could help. What an opportunity to have three generations of the same family, all born in Burnley, as it's first citizens.

"The youth of today need a role model and it's a great opportunity for this council through the Mayorality to engage with all generations of the community."

ASD, which is based at Kings Mill in Briercliffe, works to help people with autistic spectrum disorders live their lives as independently as possible by offering advice and support to all who need it.