Former Councillors Receive Alderman Honour
Two former Ribble Valley Councillors have been recognised for their contribution to civic life in the borough by being conferred as Aldermen.
Richard Sherras and Robert Thompson, who have 48 years’ service between them, were conferred as Honorary Aldermen at a special meeting of Ribble Valley Borough Council.
Richard served on the Borough Council from 1998 to 2023. He was Deputy Leader of the Council and served as Ribble Valley Mayor in 2013/14.
He was proposed for the civic honour by Ribble Valley Borough Council Deputy Leader, Simon Hore, who said: “The office of Alderman is an ancient title that draws its origins from the ‘ealdorman’ or elder men of Anglo Saxon England. It is a fantastic line of continuity to the present day, in which we are able to bestow respect on the civic life of Ribble Valley.
“Richard has played a prominent role across several areas during his tenure on the council, including serving as Chairman for the Planning and Development Committee, and his work for the Rural Services Network.
“Of particular note was Richard’s role as Armed Forces Champion, to which he brought his immeasurable experience as a former serving member of Armed Forces in the 16th Independent Parachute Brigade.
“He is also to be commended for the support and fundraising efforts he gave to his charities during his Mayoral year of 2013.”
Councillor Lee Jameson, Leader of the Labour Group, seconded the nomination for Alderman.
Robert Thompson served on Ribble Valley Borough Council from 1999 to 2023.
He was proposed by Councillor Stuart Hirst, Chairman of the Health and Housing Committee, who said: “Over the years, Robert has played a significant role in the community.
“As Chair of the Community Committee for 16 years, his highlights have included the introduction of a three-stream waste collection for the borough as well as the opening of the Castle Museum.
“I would like to personally thank him for his support in planning the Jubilee Trail in 2022 and wish him and his family well in their forthcoming relocation.”
Councillor Stewart Fletcher, Leader of the Opposition, seconded the nomination.
The two men were presented with framed illuminated scrolls conferring the new honour.