Published on
26 July 2023
Mr Angus Ross appointed as borough's Honorary Alderman
At an extraordinary meeting of the council on 24 July, Mr Angus Ross was nominated and appointed as an Honorary Alderman of the Borough of Wokingham, recognising his 32 years of service to residents, local organisations and the community.
Mr Ross was the first Mayor of Wokingham Borough, after the council was granted borough status by the late Queen Elizabeth II in March 2007. Prior to this date, Wokingham was a district council with a chairman as civic head. Since becoming a borough council 16 years ago, Wokingham has had a Mayor to chair the council.
He is recognised for his distinguished public service to borough residents, particularly those of the Wokingham Without ward, on committees of the council, including various roles as executive member, to local organisations including the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, and in the offices of Chairman and Mayor. He also served as the council’s armed forces champion.
In May 2022, Mr Ross retired as a borough councillor after 32 years of service and as a lead member for the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority after 22 years of service. Prior to these roles, he also served as a Squadron Leader for the Royal Air Force for 20 years.
Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr Beth Rowland presented Mr Ross with the Honorary Alderman badge and a framed scroll and said: “I have known Angus for many years and have found him to be a polite, caring person. He is always a gentleman and it is my great pleasure, on behalf of the council, to appoint him as the borough’s Honorary Alderman for his dedication and service to our residents, local community and the council. We thank you for your admirable commitment to our borough.”
Honorary Alderman of the Borough of Wokingham Mr Angus Ross said: “I am honoured to receive this recognition and feel privileged to be the second Honorary Alderman of the borough. It was daunting to be present at the council meeting with almost the whole council taking time to attend and many speaking about me. Then to have the Mayor present me with this award and giving me an opportunity to address council. I will always remember this occasion and I look forward to continuing my association with the borough, even though I now live 600 metres outside the borough boundary. I consider that I represent many councillors who have contributed to their wards and the borough over many years, as I know the current councillors will continue to do.”
The role of Honorary Alderman
An Honorary Alderman may attend and take part in civic events organised by the council and is entitled to wear the badge of ‘Honorary Alderman’ at such events. An Honorary Alderman will receive invitations to all civic and social events to which members of the council are also invited to.
To be nominated as an Honorary Alderman, the person must meet the following criteria:
- No longer hold the position of councillor
- Must have served for a minimum of 20 years at the council
- Must have rendered eminent services during their time at the council
- Must have made a significant contribution to the council and the people it represents
