North Northamptonshire Council convened a special meeting on Thursday 21 May 2026 to formally recognise the eminent service of six former councillors. The council unanimously resolved to confer the titles of Honorary Alderman and Alderwoman upon Timothy Allebone, Tom Beattie, Ray Beeby, Dudley Hughes, Sylvia Hughes, and Andrew Scarborough. This honour acknowledges their significant contributions and dedication to public service within the council and its predecessor authorities.

Nominations for Honorary Aldermen and Alderwomen

The council formally recognised the distinguished service of six former councillors by enrolling them as Honorary Aldermen and Alderwomen. This decision was made to celebrate individuals who have dedicated many years to public life and have made significant contributions to the communities of North Northamptonshire.

The following individuals were honoured:

• Timothy Allebone: Served for 22 years across the Borough Council of Wellingborough and North Northamptonshire Council. He was Mayor of Wellingborough from 2006-2007 and held numerous other roles, including chairing committees and serving on various boards related to waste management, arts, and education. He also served on Easton Maudit Parish Meeting for 46 years and held positions within the church. Councillor Tom Partridge-Underwood proposed his nomination, highlighting his wide-ranging interests and long-standing contribution to civic life, while Councillor Jon-Paul Carr seconded, emphasising his deep connection to Northamptonshire's heritage.

• Tom Beattie: Served for 18 years on Corby Borough Council, including a decade as its leader from 2011 to 2021. During his leadership, Corby saw significant transformation, and he was recognised with the Council Leader of the Year award. He also held prominent positions in regional and national local government bodies. Councillor William Colquhoun proposed his nomination, detailing his leadership and community involvement, with Councillor David Baker seconding.

• Ray Beeby: Dedicated 30 years to public service, serving on Corby Borough Council for 26 years and Corby Town Council for four years. He served as Mayor of Corby Borough Council twice and was actively involved in numerous charitable organisations and community initiatives. Councillor Kelly Duddridge proposed his nomination, highlighting his long-standing connection to Corby and his commitment to the community, and Councillor William Colquhoun seconded, describing him as a stalwart of Corby's civic and social life.

• Dudley Hughes: Served for 18 years as a councillor for East Northamptonshire Council and 12 years for Northamptonshire County Council. He held leadership positions, including Chair of both councils, and was instrumental in fundraising for charities. His extensive involvement included roles in education, youth services, and as a magistrate for over 25 years. Councillor Wendy Brackenbury proposed his nomination, detailing his extensive public service, with Councillor David Brackenbury seconding and describing him as a hardworking and dedicated councillor.

• Sylvia Hughes: Served for 14 years on East Northamptonshire Council, where she chaired the council in 2011-2012, and for 12 years on Northamptonshire County Council. Her work included significant contributions to public health and chairing the Health and Wellbeing Board. She was also involved in opposing a wind turbine planning application near a World Heritage Site and served on the board of the University of Northampton, later being awarded an honorary fellowship. Councillor David Brackenbury proposed her nomination, highlighting her diligence and community representation, and Councillor Jon-Paul Carr seconded, acknowledging her contributions to public health and collaborative approach.

• Andrew Scarborough: Had a distinguished career spanning 36 years as a councillor for the Borough Council of Wellingborough and Wellingborough Town Council. He held leadership positions, including Deputy Leader and Leader of the Opposition, and his tenure saw the council graded as Outstanding. Beyond his council duties, he served as a school governor, chaired charities, and was a magistrate for 23 years. Councillor David Baker proposed his nomination, describing him as a respected figure known for his professionalism and humility, with Councillor Kelly Duddridge seconding and calling him a mentor and trusted colleague.

The decision to enrol these individuals was made in accordance with the council's Scheme for the Enrolment of Honorary Aldermen and Honorary Alderwomen, which requires a minimum of 12 years of service and a record of eminent public service or exceptional community leadership. The council unanimously approved all six nominations, with members speaking in strong support of each candidate, acknowledging their collective dedication and the lasting impact they have had on local government and the communities they served. Following the vote, the newly appointed Honorary Aldermen and Alderwoman were presented with their certificates.