Two former Harrogate Borough councillors, with 43 years combined service, have been conferred with the title of Honorary Alderman in recognition of their long service and dedication to the district.
Former Mayors of the Borough of Harrogate, Michael Newby and Bill Hoult, received the title at an Extraordinary Meeting of the Council on Wednesday 16th July.
Mr Newby served on Harrogate Borough Council for 24 years, while Mr Hoult, served for 19 years. Both stood down at this year’s elections in May.
At the meeting, Councillor Richard Cooper Harrogate Borough Council Leader, and Councillor Philip Broadbank, Leader of the Opposition, paid tribute to the work of Mr Newby and Mr Hoult. The motion was then carried unanimously by council.
Councillor Jim Clark, the Mayor of the Borough of Harrogate then invited the former councillors to sign the Roll of Honorary Aldermen, and receive their badge of office.
The Mayor said: I would like to congratulate Michael and Bill for their hard work and dedication as councillors. It has been a pleasure to confer the title of Honorary Alderman upon them in recognition of their long service to the community.
Following the confirmation, Michael Newby said: It is a great honour to have the title of Honorary Alderman bestowed upon you and it was really appreciated to have received such a warm welcome from council.
Bill Hoult, who was privileged to receive the recognition of his work as a councillor, said: It has been a real pleasure to serve as an elected councillor and to help residents. I am very pleased to have done this over the last 19 years and to receive this title in recognition is truly an honour.
