Former Mayors of Charnwood made Honorary Alderwomen

Published: Tue 5th November, 2024

Two former Mayors of Charnwood have been made Honorary Alderwomen.

Pauline Ranson and Dr Jill Vincent were presented with the title which is one of the highest that can be made to a former councillor in recognition of exceptional service to the community.

They were each presented with a scroll, robes and an Alderwoman medallion at the council meeting on Monday, 4 November 2024.

Current Mayor, Cllr Dr Julie Bradshaw MBE, said: “I am really pleased that we have bestowed the title of honorary Alderwoman on Pauline and Jill.

“They have both been a huge part of their local communities for a long time.

“Pauline has worked in a variety of nursing roles throughout her career and has gone on to be a governor at two local schools and be involved in a number of charity organisations.

“Jill was a researcher in social policy at Loughborough University and made significant contributions as a councillor, being a cabinet member in the 2000s. Since retiring, Jill continues to be very active in the community and has been a governor for Loughborough College and contributes to a number of community bodies.”

Mrs Ranson was a borough councillor for 16 years between 2007 and 2023, serving as Mayor of Charnwood in 2017/18.

Dr Vincent was also a borough councillor for 16 years between 1995 and 2011, serving as Mayor of Charnwood in 2010/11.

Mrs Ranson, said: “This is a real honour to have been awarded this title.

“I have devoted a lot of time to the local community following moving to Charnwood over 30 years ago and I would like to thank all of the councillors for considering me for this role.”

Dr Vincent, said: “I am very grateful to have been made honorary Alderwoman in this fantastic borough.

“Throughout the years, I have been involved in many organisations, served as a borough councillor and had the pleasure of being Mayor of Charnwood. I would like to say thank you to everyone for their support and to the councillors for putting me forward for this role.”

Honorary Alderwomen wear a blue robe and support the Mayor on formal ceremonial occasions.

They are entitled to take a seat at meetings of the council, although they have no voting rights.

Mrs Ranson and Dr Vincent are the first people in Charnwood to be given the title, Honorary Alderwomen.

They join Honorary Aldermen Robert Shields, Anthony William Stott, John Bush, Joe Tormey and Paul Day.

To find out more about Mayoralty in Charnwood, visit the Mayoral webpage.