Former councillor nominated for civic honour

A former councillor, described as having made an "enormous contribution to public life", has been nominated to receive one of the local authority's highest civic honours.

Sunderland City Council's cabinet recommended Harry Trueman be appointed an Honorary Alderman of the City of Sunderland, following more than 30 years of serving his community.

The position of Honorary Alderman is awarded to former councillors who have provided distinguished service to the local authority and the city.

Trueman said he was grateful for the nomination, adding: "Serving the people of Sunderland has been a privilege".

Trueman represented Washington West for the Labour Party from May 1995 until his retirement from the council in May 2026.

In that time, he served as mayor, deputy leader of the council and then council leader between 2017 and 2018, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

He also served as consort during the mayoral year of his wife, Dorothy Trueman.

Chris Eynon, leader of the council's ruling Reform UK group, said the former councillor had made an "enormous contribution to public life in our city" and described him as a "real gentleman".

Following the cabinet's confirmation it was making the recommendation to full council, Trueman said: "This nomination reflects the support of colleagues, council officers, community organisations and the residents I have worked with for many years.

"And the memory of my dear wife Dorothy."

It will be considered at the next full council meeting on Wednesday, where councillors will be asked to formally agree to confer the title.

The non-political role carries no allowance and recognises individuals who have made a significant contribution to public life, allowing them to continue to play a role in civic activities.

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