THREE former members of Ryedale District Council (RDC) have been named as Honorary Alderman - the first award since 2013.

The status of Honorary Alderman was awarded to former councillors Brian Maud, Robert Wainwright and Elizabeth Shields for a combined 87 years of service across Ryedale.

Cllr Keane Duncan, leader of RDC, said: “It is only right that their combined 87 years of service has been recognised and celebrated.

“All three set an example of dedication we should aspire to follow.”

To receive the Honorary Alderman status, a former councillor must have served for at least 15 years and have given eminent service.

The awards were announced by chairman of the council, Cllr Michael Cleary, at a ceremony at Ryedale House in Malton, in front of an audience of past and present councillors, council officers, friends and family.

Honorary Alderman Brian Maud served as councillor for the Rillington ward from 1985 to 1989 and again from 1999 to 2019.

Brian said: “I have always been interested in people, and as a councillor I felt I was doing things in their interest.

“The ceremony was a wonderful experience with such a friendly atmosphere, and it was so nice to see so many former colleagues there to enjoy it with me.”

Honorary Alderman Robert Wainwright, who served as councillor for Hovingham from 1995 to 2019, said: “I am extremely proud to be given this award.

“I would like to thank my family and friends who have supported me, my fellow councillors, and all the staff who were so helpful during my time in office.

“It has been a privilege and a pleasure to have been involved with Ryedale District Council for the past 24 years.”

Honorary Alderman Elizabeth Shields, who served as councillor for Norton-on-Derwent from 1980 to 2019, said: “I am absolutely delighted to receive this honour.

“As an Alderman, I hope to meet informally with others in the same position to see how we can contribute something for the betterment of the council and - most especially - for the benefit of the residents of the district.”