Council confers first Honorary Alderman and Alderwoman titles

The titles recognise former members who made outstanding contributions to public life, the council and communities across the Harborough district through their eminent service.

While the honour does not carry additional powers or responsibilities, it formally acknowledges exceptional dedication to public service.

At Annual Council on Monday 18 May 2026, councillors approved the conferring of the titles on the following former members:

Janette Ackerley

Janette Ackerley joined the council in 2007 and became a Cabinet member in 2008. Before stepping down in 2023, she served as Chair of the Scrutiny Panel and Chairman of the council in 2016/17.

Beyond her council work, she has served as a magistrate since 1996, supported the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal for more than 50 years and continues to serve on Lutterworth Town Council.

Roger Dunton MBE

Roger Dunton MBE served on the council from 1987 to 2023, completing 36 years of service.

During that time, he held several senior roles including Chairman of the council, Chairman of the Public Services Committee, Chairman of the Standards Board and Chairman of the Leisure Committee.

In the words of his nominator, “Roger enjoyed the respect of all sides of the council chamber and officers alike.”

Blake Pain

Blake Pain joined the council in 2007 and served until 2019, including four years as Leader of the council between 2013 and 2017.

During his leadership, the Cabinet introduced a new approach to delivering the Local Plan to 2031 and supported significant investment in the council’s leisure centres.

The council also recognised Councillor Simon Galton for completing 40 years of service as a district councillor and Councillor Mrs Rosita Page for completing 27 years. As serving councillors cannot be awarded Honorary Alderman and Alderwoman status, members agreed to mark the milestones with long service certificates.

Councillor Simon Whelband, Leader of Harborough District Council, said: “On Monday evening we recognised former councillors who have given exceptional service to both the council and communities across the Harborough district.

“Their dedication, leadership and commitment to public life over many years has made a lasting difference, and it is fitting that they become the first recipients of these honorary titles.”