Bassetlaw District Council has recognised the commitment and service of two of its former leaders with the title of Honorary Alderman.
Former Councillors Simon Greaves and Michael Quigley MBE received their Alderman status as part of an Extraordinary Meeting of Council in July, following a proposal by Cllr Alan Rhodes.
Alderman Greaves was first elected to Bassetlaw District Council in May 2002 and became Leader of the Council in 2012, holding the position for 10 years, before he stepped down in 2022, and then did not seek re-election in 2023.
Alderman Quigley was first elected to Bassetlaw District Council in May 1982 and has served three separate periods as a councillor, before stepping down in May 2023. He became the Leader of the Council in May 2004 after the Conservatives took control and held that position for seven years.
Cllr Rhodes, Cabinet Member for Corporate and Financial Services, said: “In May this year, two long serving former Leaders of this authority took the decision to stand down as elected members.
“It is entirely right and proper that this council recognises their dedication and commitment to Bassetlaw and its people, and thanks them for their years of service and their leadership. The most appropriate way to do this is to award them the position of Honorary Alderman of Bassetlaw.
“As someone who has also been in this position, leading a council is like football management. Everyone has an opinion on how it should be done, and some may think they can do better. The reality is that very few can. Both Simon and Michael have dedicated years of their lives to Bassetlaw District Council and have brought about change that directly benefits Bassetlaw and its residents and businesses. On behalf of the people of our district, we thank them for their public service.”
Alderman Greaves said: “I would like to express my sincere thanks to Bassetlaw Council for appointing me as Honorary Alderman with unanimous support. As part of the meeting I am pleased that I was able to express my thanks to all councils staff who work tirelessly to deliver for residents and businesses in Bassetlaw.”
Alderman Quigley said: “I am thrilled to be recognised by my peers for the many years of service on Bassetlaw District Council. In particular I would like to thank Cllrs Alan Rhodes and Robin Carrington-Wilde for proposing me.”
As Aldermen, they will now be permitted to participate in civic processions; to have a seat at Council meetings; to have use of the Members’ Room at the Council’s Town Halls; amongst other rights and privileges.
Honorary Alderman do not receive allowances or payments from Bassetlaw District Council.
Bassetlaw District Council now has eight Honorary Alderman.
The title of Honorary Alderman can be bestowed on former Councillors who meet a number of criteria, including;
- By section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, a Council by resolution passed by not less than two-thirds of the Members at a meeting of the Council specially convened for the purpose with notice of the object, confer the title Honorary Aldermen on persons who have, in the opinion of the Council, rendered eminent services to the Council as past members of that Council, but who are not then Councillors of the Council.
- Candidates should have served a minimum of 4 terms of office as a Councillor.
Last Updated on Wednesday, May 29, 2024