Former councillors receive Honorary Aldermen status for service to the county council

Six former council members were given the status of 'Honorary Aldermen' during a special full council meeting this morning. The former councillors, who between them have given 120 years' service to the county council are; Mr Albert Atkinson (1993-2021), Mr Terry Burns (1989-2009 and 2013-2021), Mrs Susie Charles (2005-2021), Mr Kevin Ellard (2001-2021), Mrs Elizabeth Oades (2005-2021) and Mr George Wilkins (2005-2021).

Being made an Honorary Aldermen is the highest recognition of excellent service that the county council can give its former councillors.

Chairman of the council, County Councillor Peter Britcliffe, said: "This is a great honour, and I was delighted to preside at this morning's meeting to see our former colleagues given this status.

"Each of them dedicated a huge amount of their time to try and improve the lives and services for the people of Lancashire, and this is a great way to show them how much we as a council appreciate their service over the years."

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, Leader of Lancashire County Council, said: "It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to recognise the work and time our former colleagues had put into serving the council.

"Our new aldermen, who served across the political groups, worked together for one common goal – to improve the lives of those living in Lancashire.

"Their dedication and commitment is a great example to us all and a reminder of the hard work they put in for the council, to improve Lancashire further for our residents."

Their names will be added to the honours board at County Hall.