Two Honorary Aldermen - Leigh-on-Sea

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Leigh On Sea News: Two Honorary Aldermen – TWO former city councillors have been named Honorary Alderman at a special council meeting.

Two Honorary Aldermen - TWO former city councillors have been named Honorary Alderman at a special council meeting.

TWO former city councillors have been named Honorary Alderman at a special council meeting.

Former Conservative council leader John Lamb and Mike Stafford, and former Independent councillor for Thorpe Ward, both received this highest of civic hours in recognition of their distinguished services to Southend Council.

This archaic title is typically conferred on former councillors who have served the community well during their tenure.

Mr Lamb became leader of Southend council in 2016, serving for three years before becoming mayor in 2019. Unusually, because of Covid, Mr Lamb kept the title for two years.

Speaking at the ceremony which bestowed upon the councillors their Alderman Badge, James Courtney, leader of the Conservative Group commented: “It’s a great honour to propose that John Lamb be made honorary alderman for the City of Southend, recognising his eminent service to the council and the city.

“John’s story is one of dedication, passion and a deep love for Southend. His commitment to Southend maritime life is unwavering. Your service to Southend is extraordinary.”

Daniel Cowan, leader of the council, added: “It’s my great privilege to support the nomination of John Lamb for the esteemed title of honorary alderman. John’s 25-year tenure as a councillor has been distinguished by a level of dedication and integrity that we should all aspire to.

“Throughout his distinguished service to Southend City Council John held a massive range of portfolios and cabinet posts. That’s testimony to his ability and character.”

Speaking for the Independent group, Steven Wakefield praised Mr Stafford’s nomination, following 16 years of loyal service to the city.

He said: “Mike is very highly regarded for the work he has done for Thorpe Ward and the city for many years. He was a man of high honesty, ethics, morals and conscience.

“Mike gave many years of loyal service to both Thorpe Ward, his council colleagues and our city. He exemplifies the meaning of being a good character and a councillor.”

The name Alderman is an archaic term, and referred, stemming from ‘ealdormen’, or aldermen, were high-ranking officials of the crown who exercised judicial, administrative, or military functions.

The name ‘councillor’ slowly replaced it, although the term is used ceremonially and honorific purposes.

Picture: Honorary alderman John Lamb (right) and May Ron Woodley

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