New additions to Leeds roll of honour

Leeds's first ever black councillor, and a former Lord Mayor who clocked up almost half a century of service before stepping down last year, are among those being added to the city's civic roll of honour today.

Cedric Clarke and Les Carter will be named Honorary Aldermen of Leeds ahead of today’s full council meeting.

Mr Clarke represented the Chapeltown ward in the 1970s, becoming the city’s first councillor of African-Carribean heritage.

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He had been a key community campaigners before that, helping form the United Caribbean Association with another Leeds luminary, carnival founder Arthur France.

Others being honoured today include veteran Conservative councillor and former Leeds Lord Mayor Les Carter, who represented Adel and Wharfedale ward for 42 years and wore the mayoral chains in 1989-1990. Also receiving the accolade is ex-Labour councillor Ted Hanley, who stood down in 2015 after 12 years representing residents in the Bramley and Stanningley ward.

Reflecting on his dozen years as a councillor, the 69-year-old grandfather earlier told the Yorkshire Evening Post: “It has been quite hard work but a very rewarding experience.”

The Lord Mayor of Leeds, councillor Judith Chapman, said: “The Honorary Alderman award is a fantastic way in which to recognise the contribution of those people who have served the city and communities across Leeds as a councillor with great dedication and commitment over a long period. We are looking forward to welcoming the latest five recipients of the award to Leeds Civic Hall, in what is always a memorable occasion.”

The new list is also completed by Mark Harris, ex Lib Dem group and joint council leader, and Philip Jones.

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