Agenda and minutes

There were no declarations of interest received.

In accordance with Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, as amended by the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009, the Council confer the title of Honorary Alderman on former Councillors Brian Bedwell, Jeff Brooks, Royce Longton, Joe Mooney and Andrew Rowles in recognition of the eminent service rendered on behalf of the Council and residents of West Berkshire over a period of time.

The Council considered Agenda Item 3 which proposed that former Councillors Brian Bedwell, Jeff Brooks, Royce Longton, Joe Mooney and Andrew Rowles be conferred the title of Honorary Alderman in recognition of their eminent service rendered on behalf of the Council and residents of West Berkshire over a period of time.

The Chairman explained that the Local Government Act 1972 made provision for the appointment of former Councillors as Honorary Alderman to recognise the eminent service they provided above and beyond their normal duties. The Honorary Alderman needed to be advocates for their communities and needed to exhibit high standards of conduct and ethics. Members had discussed and agreed to the introduction of the scheme at the September 2011 Council meeting. The two Leaders had met and discussed potential candidates. Following these discussions it had been agreed to offer the title to former Councillors Brian Bedwell, Jeff Brooks, Royce Longton, Joe Mooney and Andrew Rowles who had all accepted.

MOTION: Proposed by Councillor Peter Argyle and seconded by Councillor Emma Webster:

“That the Council confer the title of Honorary Alderman on former Councillor Brian Bedwell.”

In proposing former Councillor Bedwell, Councillor Argyle reported that he had selflessly served the community for over 20 years in a dignified manner. Councillor Bedwell had been a personal mentor to him and also a very good friend.

Councillor Webster in seconding the nomination noted that former Councillor Bedwell had been described by a constituent as a ‘delight and a gentleman’ and he had been a great servant to his residents. His most significant achievement being the redevelopment of the Underwood Road precinct.

Councillor Graham Bridgman described former Councillor Bedwell as a consummate local councillor and a complete gentleman. Councillor Alan Macro noted that former Councillor Bedwell had always treated him very fairly during their electoral battles and that he had served his parish council very well for circa 25 years and that he thoroughly deserved this accolade.

The Motion was put to the meeting and duly RESOLVED

Honorary Alderman Bedwell thanked the Council for bestowing the honour on him. He stated that he was overwhelmed and that the bestowing of this title on him was an honour and a privilege. He also commented that he had been fortunate to have worked with many fine Officers and Members during the 22 years he had served on the Council. He thanked all those present for their kind words.

MOTION: Proposed by Councillor Alan Macro and seconded by Councillor Graham Jones:

“That the Council confer the title of Honorary Alderman on former Councillor Jeff Brooks.”

In proposing former Councillor Brooks, Councillor Macro noted that former Councillor Brooks had served the people of West Berkshire in many capacities including as a member of the Fire Authority, Berkshire County Council and as a town and district Councillor. He noted that former Councillor Brooks had served his community for over 30 years and continued to do so.

Councillor Jones in seconding the proposal thanked former Councillor Brooks for the eminent  ...  view the full minutes text for item 48.