North Northamptonshire Council convened a special meeting to confer the titles of Honorary Alderman and Alderwoman upon six former councillors who have demonstrated eminent service to the council and its predecessor authorities. The council resolved to grant these honorary titles to Timothy Allebone, Tom Beattie, Ray Beeby, Dudley Hughes, Sylvia Hughes, and Andrew Scarborough, recognising their significant contributions to public life.

Nominations for Honorary Aldermen and Alderwomen

The council formally recognised the distinguished service of six former councillors by conferring upon them the titles of Honorary Alderman and Alderwoman. This decision was made following nominations and presentations highlighting the extensive careers and community contributions of each individual.

Councillor Tom Partridge-Underwood presented Timothy Allebone, noting his 22 years of service on the Borough Council of Wellingborough and North Northamptonshire Council, including his time as Mayor of Wellingborough. Councillor John Paul Carr seconded the nomination, emphasizing Allebone's pride in his Northamptonshire heritage and his involvement in the arts and community initiatives.

Councillor William Colquhoun nominated Tom Beattie, highlighting his 18 years of service on Corby Borough Council, including a decade as leader, and his national recognition as Council Leader of the Year. Councillor David Baker seconded the nomination, stating that little more could be added to Colquhoun's comprehensive speech.

Councillor Kelly Duddridge nominated Ray Beeby, a stalwart of Corby with 30 years of service across Corby Borough Council and Corby Town Council, including two terms as Mayor. Councillor William Colquhoun seconded the nomination, describing Beeby as a tireless worker for social and community activity in Corby.

Councillor Wendy Brackenbury nominated Dudley Hughes, who served for 18 years across East Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire County Council, holding chair positions in both. She detailed his extensive involvement in education, charity fundraising, and his 25 years as a magistrate. Councillor David Brackenbury seconded the nomination, commending Hughes' assiduous work ethic and dedication to youth support.

Councillor David Brackenbury also nominated Sylvia Hughes, who served for 14 years on East Northamptonshire Council and 12 years on Northamptonshire County Council. He highlighted her successful opposition to a wind farm development near Lyveden New Bield, her role as Cabinet Member for Public Health, and her significant involvement with the University of Northampton, for which she was made an honorary fellow. Councillor John Paul Carr seconded the nomination, praising her community-based work and engagement with heritage.

Finally, Councillor David Baker nominated Andrew Scarborough, who served for 24 years on the Borough Council of Wellingborough and Wellingborough Town Council. Baker noted Scarborough's extensive biography, his roles outside of politics, and his respected standing across parties. Councillor Kelly Duddridge seconded the nomination, describing Scarborough as a colleague, mentor, and a true example of a public servant dedicated to fairness, civility, truth, and justice.

The council resolved to approve all six nominations, with the decision being made on block by a show of hands. The meeting concluded with congratulations to the newly conferred honorary aldermen and alderwomen, who were then invited to receive their certificates.