Exeter's former Lord Mayor honoured with alderman title

A former Lord Mayor of Exeter has been made an Honorary Alderman of the city in recognition of his decade-long contribution to local government.

Percy Prowse, who served as Lord Mayor in 2014/15 and as Deputy Lord Mayor the year before, received the honour at a ceremony held at the city's historic Guildhall.

Mr Prowse spent 12 years as a city councillor before stepping down, the minimum length of service required to be eligible for the title.

Speaking after the ceremony, he said the recognition meant a great deal to him. "I've watched the Alderman performing their civic duties over the years and I look forward to joining those events," he said.

Councillors had approved his nomination at an Extraordinary Council Meeting in October.

What does the title mean?

The Honorary Alderman title can be conferred on former councillors deemed to have "rendered eminent services to the council".

Those awarded the honour are entitled to walk in civic processions in a position senior to serving councillors, attend all civic and social events, and receive invitations to council meetings, though they may not vote or take part in formal proceedings.

The title is purely ceremonial and cannot be held by anyone who remains a sitting member of the council.