FIVE former members of Lancashire County Council were given the title of Honorary Alderman in a special meeting last month.

In recognition of his long and eminent service St Annes county councillor Eric Bamber, along with John Entwistle, Eileen Kershaw, Irene Short and John West, received the honour on September 27.

A St Annes North county councillor since 1985, Eric Bamber was active on the former fire service & public protection committee, the highways and transportation and library and leisure committees.

He also served on the policy and resources and education and cultural services committees.

In particular Eric has been a champion of the library and museums service as Conservative spokesman and used every opportunity to promote the service.

John Entwistle was elected to the county council in 1973 and served until 1977. He was again elected in 1981 and represented Burnley West.

Mrs Eileen Kershaw was elected in May 1981 and represented Whitworth until June this year. She has also served on Whitworth Council and Rossendale Borough Council.

Mrs Irene Short was elected in 1981 representing Preston Central West. John West has represented Preston South East since 1981.