Nineteen of our former councillors, who served their communities for a combined 356 years, were honoured at a ceremony in the council chamber at County Hall today (Friday).
Each of them had served their communities and the county with distinction, and were bestowed with the title of Honorary Alderman of the County of Devon.
The ceremony was conducted by the Chair of Devon County Council, Councillor Caroline Leaver who presented a Badge of Office and Commemorative Scroll to each in attendance.
Of the 19 former councillors recognised one was given posthumously – Frank Letch, the former member for Crediton and recipient of an MBE for his charity and community work, passed away in April this year.
Frank’s Badge of Office and Commemorative Scroll was accepted by his wife, Councillor Natalia Letch, who serves on Mid Devon District Council.
Also present at the ceremony was the leader of the council Julian Brazil, leader of the Conservative Group Andrew Leadbetter and leader of the Green and Independent group Jaqi Hodgson and Chief Executive Donna Manson.
The recipients of the title of Alderman, their tenure dates and the divisions they served were:
Frank W Letch MBE (2021-2025) Crediton
Ian Lloyd Hall (2017-2025) Axminster
Andrew Saywell (2017-2025) Torrington Rural
Alistair Dewhirst (2013-2025) Ipplepen and the Kerswells
Rufus Gilbert (2013-2025) Salcombe
George Gribble (2009-2025) Bovey Rural
Percy Prowse (2009-2025) Duryard and Pennsylvania
Sara M Randall-Johnson (2009-2025) Broadclyst
Jerry Brook (2005-2025) Chudleigh and Teign Valley
Roger Frederick Croad (2005-2025) Ivybridge
Rob Hannaford (2005-2025) Exwick and St Thomas
James R Mclnnes (2005-2025) Hatherleigh and Chagford
John Berry ARAgS (2001-2025) Cullompton and Bradninch
Ray Radford (2001-2025) Willand and Uffculme
Margaret Squires (2001-2005 / 2013-2025) Creedy, Taw and Mid Exe
Jeremy Owen Yabsley (2001-2025) South Molton
Christine Channon (1993-2025) Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton Coastal
Thomas J Hart (1989-1997 / 2001-2025) Bickleigh and Wembury
Stuart Hughes (1993-2025) Sidmouth
Councillor Leaver said:
“It’s an honour today to be able to present the title of Honorary Alderman to so many of my friends and former colleagues who I have worked with over the years.
“The contribution councillors can make in their time can be wide ranging and all of you have made a significant contribution to public life, either in terms of length of service or perhaps as a committee chair, former cabinet member or council leader.”
