A VETERAN councillor, who died earlier this year, could be awarded an honorary title in recognition of the years spent serving the community. John Eddy, represented the Somersham and Earith division at Cambridgeshire County Council from 1981 until he died

A VETERAN councillor, who died earlier this year, could be awarded an honorary title in recognition of the years spent serving the community.

John Eddy, represented the Somersham and Earith division at Cambridgeshire County Council from 1981 until he died on August 3 after a short illness, aged 72.

Such was his contribution to local politics that the leaders of the three main political groups have recommended the title of Honorary Alderman is conferred posthumously on Councillor Eddy.

This title has been bestowed only on seven councillors and it is not usual practice to award the honour posthumously.

Ian Stewart, county council chief executive, said: "This will be the first time that the title of Honorary Alderman has been awarded after the death of a councillor but the group leaders are of the view that this is an appropriate way of marking Cllr Eddy's significant contribution to local government over many years."

Cllr Eddy, a farmer, was vice-chairman of the county council between 1997 and 1999 and chairman between 1999 and 2001. He was also the elected member for Earith on Huntingdonshire District Council for 30 years.

A decision on the awarding of the honour was expected today (Wednesday).

* Elections for the seats left vacant by the death of John Eddy were held on Thursday, October 12.

Cambridgeshire County Council Somersham and Earith ward results:

Richard John Allen (Lab) 81

Stephen Jeffery Criswell (Con) 1,377

Anthony Bell Hulme (Lib Dem) 566

Voter turnout was 28.2 per cent.

Stephen Criswell was elected, holding the seat for the Conservatives.