AN ‘HONOURED and humbled’ councillor has received a prestigious honour after more than three decades serving Rugby and Warwickshire.
Coun Jerry Roodhouse, Warwickshire County Council’s (WCC) longest standing member, has been given the title of Honorary Freeman of the County of Warwickshire – the first time it has been awarded to an individual this millennium.
WCC councillors from all parties unanimously endorsed the honorary award for Coun Roodhouse, recognising his significant and valuable services rendered to the county.
The award recognises the 35 years of service that Coun Roodhouse has given to the communities of Warwickshire – first as a member of Rugby Borough Council (RBC) from 1990 and then as a member of the County Council from 1993.
Coun Roodhouse represents Paddox Ward at RBC, and Eastlands Ward at WCC. He leads the Liberal Democrat group on both councils, and served as Mayor of Rugby in 1999-2000.
He has earned the respect of his WCC peers across the political spectrum for his campaigning on health and social care, local policing and protecting green areas, as well as for his work in supporting community groups and children.
Coun Roodhouse said: “I am honoured and humbled to be awarded the Freemanship of Warwickshire.
“Although my roots are in Yorkshire, Warwickshire and Rugby is my home. Warwickshire’s history, its landscapes, and above all its people have shaped my life in ways I will never forget. To be recognised in this way by the place and community I hold so dear is so deeply moving.
“The guiding principles that I have always followed are to represent the people who elected me and to be their community champion, to fight against inequality, and to fight for fairness and support for individuals.
“This honour is not something I could ever have achieved alone. It reflects the support, encouragement, and kindness I’ve received over the years from my family and especially my wife Sue, along with friends and colleagues – including Officers of the County Council and the Eastlands and Paddox community in Rugby. To all of you, I owe a debt of gratitude.
“Thank you for bestowing this rare and special honour upon me. I will treasure it always.”
WCC leader George Finch said Coun Roodhouse was one of the most distinguished and dedicated public servants in the county.
He added: “For many years he has carried the considerable responsibility of leading the Liberal Democrat group with integrity, consistency and a deep commitment to public service and his political party.
“His leadership has been thoughtful, principled and pragmatic, working in collaboration, but always placing the needs of his residents at the heart of his work.”
