Rebel Labour councillor proposed for honour

FIVE former Warrington councillors are to be recommended for the  title of honorary alderman  – including one who stood against the controlling Labour Party after being “de-selected” prior to the May elections.
Former councillor Bill Brinksman (pictured) stood as an independent at Woolston after he was de-selected after holding his seat for Labour for more than 10 years.
He will be proposed for the honour, along with former councillors Kate Hannon and John Joyce (Labour), Sue Bland (Conservative) and Keith Gleave (Liberal Democrat), by Labour leader of the council Terry O’Neill at a special meeting of the borough council on June 20.
Mr Brinksman was expelled from the Labour Party immediately after announcing his intention to stand against the official party candidate.
But he failed to retain his seat by just 97 votes.
Former councillors can be given the title of honorary alderman if, in the opinion of the council, they have rendered eminent services to the council.
An extraordinary meeting of the council must be called to consider the matter and a two-thirds majority of the council is required, by law, in order for the title to be given.  Aldermen must have served as a councillor for at least 10 years.
Former councillors on who the title is conferred, are presented with a medallion from the council. They have no rights,  other than to attend meetings of the council as members of the public.