HUNDREDS of years of service has been honoured by Durham County Council.

The Labour authority recognised the contribution of 12 former councillors by making them honorary aldermen.

The honour was bestowed on nine of them by council chairman Charlie Magee, who gave them framed certificates.

Honorary aldermen may take part in some civic ceremonies but cannot attend council meetings or receive allowances.

Between them, the ex-councillors, most of whom stood down in June, have hundreds of years service to the council.

They are: John Armstrong, Independent, Evenwood, who served 28 years on the current council and ten with its predecessor.

The rest are Labour members - Derek Bates, Pelton, 28 years with the council and six with its predecessor; Len James, Craghead and South Moor, 26 years; Jim Mackintosh, Gilesgate, 28 years with the council and four with its predecessor; Pat Nolan, Belmont, 12 years; John Richardson, Willington, 24 years service and four with the previous council; Allan Thompson, Coxhoe, 28 years; John T Thompson, Annfield Plain, 28 years; Joe Walker, Burnopfield and Dipton, 16 years.

Former leader Don Robson, who had 20 years service as Labour councillor for Medomsley, Derek Armstrong, who served 22 years as an Independent in Horden, and Ron Morrisey, Labour, Sherburn, who served for 20 years, could not attend the ceremony.