The Full Council of Lancashire County Council met on Thursday, 16 July 2026, to formally recognise the distinguished service of nine former councillors by conferring upon them the title of Honorary Alderman. The meeting unanimously approved the recommendations, with each recipient's contributions being celebrated through speeches by their former colleagues before they were presented with their certificates.

Appointment of Honorary Aldermen

The primary business of the meeting was the conferral of the title of Honorary Alderman upon nine former councillors who had rendered eminent service to Lancashire County Council. The title is awarded to former members who have served at least four terms, accumulating a significant period of dedication to the county. The nine individuals recognised were Terence Aldridge, Peter Britcliffe, Frank de Molfetta, John Phyllis, Steve Holgate, Andrea Kaye, Jennifer Mein, John Shedwick, and Matthew Tomlinson.

Each nominee's extensive service was highlighted by a colleague, detailing their individual contributions, leadership roles, and commitment to their constituents and the wider county.

• Terence Aldridge was recognised for his 20 years of service, during which he served as Vice Chairman and Chairman of Lancashire County Council. County Councillor Mark Clifford spoke of Aldridge's dedication, particularly his advocacy for older people and his involvement in numerous committees and outside bodies, including the Lancashire Combined Fire Authority. Aldridge himself expressed gratitude to the people of West Lancashire and the Labour group for their support.

• Peter Britcliffe was honoured for his 20 years of service to Lancashire County Council, alongside approximately 40 years of service to Hyndburn Borough Council, where he served as Leader for 12 years and Mayor. County Councillor Tim Ashton shared anecdotes illustrating Britcliffe's character, highlighting his significant influence on local government in East Lancashire and his role in championing improvements to Accrington Town Centre. Britcliffe humourously noted his past efforts in teaching Andrew Snowden how to barrack in Parliament.

• Francesco De Molfetta was nominated for his 20 years of service, having served on committees such as the Commons and Towns Green Subcommittee and the Regulatory Committee. County Councillor Mark Clifford noted De Molfetta's significant contribution to the Lancashire Combined Fire Authority, where he served as chairman. De Molfetta thanked his constituents and his wife for their support, expressing his delight at receiving the honour.

• John Phyllis was recognised for his 20 years of service across two periods. County Councillor Kim Snape highlighted his roles as Chief Whip, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, and Deputy Leader of the Opposition. Snape also recounted Phyllis's life-saving actions in performing CPR on a former councillor, Tony Jones, in 2017. Phyllis, who also had a 45-year career in the NHS, spoke of his commitment to public service and his efforts to promote Lancashire internationally, including a speech in Chinese.

• Steve Holgate was celebrated for his 16 years of service, during which he was a passionate advocate for his constituents and disabled people. County Councillor Mark Clifford mentioned Holgate's memorable protest involving a bucket of sewage to highlight environmental damage. Holgate reflected on his time in public office, noting the challenges and rewards, and specifically mentioned the Planning Committee's decision on the Preston New Road fracking site as a significant undertaking.

• Andrea Kaye was recognised for her 16 years of service, with County Councillor Alf Clemson highlighting her dedication to improving facilities for children and young people, leading to the establishment of a skate park. Kaye also served as Chair of the Children's Services Scrutiny Committee and was involved in numerous charity events. She expressed her commitment to giving children a voice and her enjoyment of her time on the council.

• Jennifer Mein was nominated for 20 years of service, having held significant positions including Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Children and Young People. County Councillor Samara Barnes praised Mein's unwavering Labour values and her support for other women in politics, including the establishment of the Lancashire Women's Network. Mein spoke of the pride she felt as Leader of Lancashire County Council and the support of her husband and family.

• John Shedwick was honoured for 24 years of service, having had a varied career including roles as a theatre manager for the Grand Theatre in Blackpool and the Preston Guild. County Councillor Alf Clemson noted Shedwick's busy year as Chairman in 2012, which coincided with the Preston Guild, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, and the London Olympics. Shedwick expressed his gratitude for the honour and acknowledged the collective service of all recipients.

• Matthew Tomlinson was recognised for over 20 years of service, including roles as Cabinet Member for the Environment and later for Children, Young People and Schools. County Councillor Kim Snape highlighted Tomlinson's dedication to improving the lives of young people and his current role as Leader of South Ribble Borough Council. Tomlinson reflected on the strong Lancashire women who had supported his career and expressed his gratitude to his wife, Noema, for her 44 years of support.

The meeting concluded with the Chairman, County Councillor Lee Hutchinson, offering congratulations to all the newly appointed Honorary Aldermen and Alderwomen. The council then proceeded to take a group photograph with the new Honorary Aldermen.