AFTER nearly five decades of serving Banbury, a former councillor has been honoured by his colleagues.

Fred Blackwell has been appointed to the role of Honorary Alderman, a title which reflects the past achievements of the town's representatives.

The Easington resident had served on the district council and on its predecessor Banbury Borough Council for 45 years before retiring in May.

Speaking about his award, he said: "It was great, wonderful. I couldn't believe it.

"I am never usually lost for words but I was when I received the honour. When I saw the number of people that spoke about what a nice bloke I was, I wondered if they were talking about me."

The title was awarded by district council leader Barry Wood and council chairwoman Chris Heath at a special council meeting on July 18.

Father-of-two Mr Blackwell, 88, added: "Barry and I have had a good relationship for many years, and he called me a week beforehand asking if I was doing anything on the 18th.

"I replied 'not a lot since I'm retired' but when he said about the honour I soon picked myself up."

Among Mr Blackwell's highlights of his time in politics was visiting Buckingham Palace three times and meeting members of the Royal Family as well as the opening of the council's Bodicote House base.

He said: "I ended up doing a bit of everything as councillor, I did some tree planting, some roadworks. I pushed for things that were not being pushed."

Mr Wood paid tribute to the former councillor, and said: "Fred is widely known in the district as a proper councillor.

"He was dedicated to serving his community and was a pleasure to work with."

During his time as a councillor, Mr Blackwell held a range of positions including council chairman and executive member.

Mr Wood said: "He has served as chairman of countless committees over the years, and became known for his fairness and insistence on always listening properly to all the evidence.

"At times his duties might not have been the most glamorous, but he fulfilled them with diligence and commitment regardless.

"He undertook difficult jobs such as chairing appeal panels with real impartiality and a focus on the evidence he was presented with.

“On a personal note, Fred is widely respected for the courtesy and respect he shows to everyone who crosses his path."

The term “Alderman” is a traditional title which derives from Old English and means "elder man".

Those given the title in North Oxfordshire have their names inscribed on a roll of honour, and are also presented with their own scroll at a formal council ceremony.

As part of the role Mr Blackwell will be asked to represent the council at official events.

But he said he is looking forward to parking in the members area at the council's Bodicote House base so he can visit old friends there.