TWO long-serving former councillors have been given the status of honorary alderman in recognition of their service to Basildon.

Former mayor Mo Larkin and former Labour group leader Nigel Smith, who both stood down in May, were both nominated at a Basildon Council meeting last night.

The duo received cross-party support for the award, which is given to those who have “made an outstanding contribution to the activities of the council and the borough”.

Tory Mrs Larkin became Basildon’s first mayor when the council was granted borough status in 2010.

Councillor Andrew Schrader, who nominated her, said: “She was a colourful and occasionally controversial character, but even her most trenchant critics would have to admit she was a tireless advocate for all the residents of Basildon borough.

“Mo really diligently served the residents of this borough for 17 years as a member of this council.”

Mr Smith, who served as council leader in 2002, was nominated for the accolade by Labour councillor Alan Bennett.

Mr Bennett said: “‘It has been my privilege to know Nigel for almost 15 years and to work closely with him for the last ten.

“Nigel has dedicated 38 years to public office and has held the position of leader of this council and leader of Southend Council before his service for Basildon.

“It has been quite a special relationship as my election to the council was as a result of Nigel standing down and me stepping into those very big shoes to represent Lee Chapel North.”

The pair will be formally recognised at a special ceremony and presentation at a later date.

The only person to previously be named as an honorary alderman was former council chairman Geoffrey Buckenham in 2011.

Honorary aldermen will have their names displayed on a board at the council offices and can attend functions and receptions which councillors are invited to.