Eight former Kent County Councillors have been given the title of Honorary Alderman in recognition of their service to the people of Kent.

The title is a statutory Office of Dignity awarded under the Local Government Act 1972. It recognises the Councillors’ long and eminent service to the Council. This is the first time Kent County Council has made these awards.

The appointments were approved at a special meeting of the County Council this week (10 December). The recipients were Terry Birkett, Joyce Esterson, Dr Frank Fox, Frank Gibson OBE, Right Honourable Lord Kingsdown KG PC, Peter Morgan, Allison Wainman OBE and Fred Wood-Brignall.

KCC Chairman John Davies presented each with a certificate to commemorate their award.

Mr Davies said:

“Kent County Council has bestowed the title of Honorary Alderman on eight former members who served for 12 years or more, in recognition of their exceptional services to the Council. It recognises each individual's contribution to the activities of the Council and the well-being of the County of Kent.

“I was very proud to honour such distinguished service and be the first Chairman to present such an accolade.”

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Note: Fred Wood-Brignall was elected to the County Council in 1997 as the Conservative Member for Romney Marsh and served until 2009. Mr Wood-Brignall was Vice Chairman of the County Council from 2005 to 2006 and became Chairman from 2006 to 2007.