A former councillor with 22 years of service to the community has been awarded the title of Honorary Alderman in recognition of her commitment to the people of Rushmoor.
At an extraordinary council meeting, Diane Bedford became a member of a select band of people who have been awarded the title since the formation of Rushmoor Borough Council in 1974.
Diane was first elected to the council in 2002 and served continuously until 2024 as a member for St Mark’s ward in North Camp, Farnborough.
She served as Mayor of the borough from 2014 to 2015 and was the Cabinet member for Leisure and Youth for nine years between 2004/05 and 2012/13.
Diane was also the Chairman of the Leisure and Youth Policy and Review Panel in 2013/14 and in 2017/18 and served as a member of the following committees and panels: Borough Services, Community Policy and Review Panel, Corporate Services Policy and Review Panel, Development Management Committee, the Environment Policy and Review Panel and the Licensing and General Purposes Committee among others.
She also represented the council on a wide range of outside bodies including long term on the Rushmoor Sports Forum, Step by Step, Royal British Legion (Farnborough branch) the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership and the Wavell Cody Community Campus Management Committee
Diane’s proposer, Councillor Sue Carter, said: “Diane has some lovely attributes. She is kind, considerate and a good listener. She is a great team player, trustworthy and has a great sense of humour.
“Diane continues with her important community work through the Farnborough Rotarians – she has been a past president and is still an active member. She is held in high esteem.
“You’re a special friend of mine and you deserve this honour. You’re a top lady and it gives me great pleasure to propose you.”
Diane’s seconder, Councillor Keith Dibble, said: “Diane has always undertaken her council tasks with good humour.
“Diane is a true community councillor, putting residents before party, and always a force for good. This is evident when you talk to North Camp residents and traders.
“It’s always been a pleasure to serve and work with her, always operating with a smile and chairing meetings with fairness and common sense.”
The Mayor of Rushmoor, Councillor Mara Makunura, congratulated Diane and presented her with a scroll and a special badge.
Aldermen are elected by councillors and the title is used by both men and women. They are able to attend council meetings but do not have any voting powers.
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