A retired Kirkstall councillor and a former Pudsey MP have received one of the highest civic honours the city can bestow at a special session of full council.
The group of former councillors, who have 170 years of public service between them and include former Kirkstall councillor John Illingworth (Lab) and former Pudsey MP Paul Truswell (who went on to serve as a councillor in Middleton Park), recognising their exceptional contribution to the council and the city.
John Illingworth was first elected to represent the Kirkstall area of the city in 1979 and served for 44 years. Former journalist Paul Truswell was first elected to the Headingley ward in 1982, and later became Labour’s MP for Pudsey in 1997 – a role he held until 2010. He then returned to Civic Hall as a councillor for Middleton Park in 2012
The ceremonial position of Honorary Alderman/Alderwoman is conferred on past members of the council who, in the eyes of the authority, have given eminent service to Leeds in a public position.
It does not entitle the holders to any special privileges; however, it does enable them to attend ceremonial events as and when they are invited to and actively support the Lord Mayor’s charity.
Speaking after the ceremony the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Al Garthwaite, said: “It’s an honour for me to welcome back to the Civic Hall and honour a group of people who over a combined 170 years, have worked tirelessly for Leeds.
“While their new roles are ceremonial, I am sure they will continue to support the city at every available opportunity, and I look forward to working closely with them as they continue to support the civic and charitable work of the Lord Mayor.”
The full list of new Alderman and Alderwoman is as follows:
