Three former councillors, including a former leader, have been recognized for their exceptional service to Leicestershire. Nick Rushton, Bill Boulter, and Jeffrey Kaufman, who together have 64 years of experience, have been awarded the title of Honorary Aldermen. This honor is reserved for individuals who have concluded their political careers at the county council and have demonstrated outstanding service. Nominations for this title are typically considered every four years.
Nick Rushton's Distinguished Career
Nick Rushton was first elected to the county council in 1989, serving until 1993. He was re-elected in 2001 for the Valley division in the northwest of the county and served until 2025. Over his 28 years as a county councillor, Rushton served on the cabinet before becoming leader in 2012. He held the leadership role for 12 years until 2025 and also served as chairman of the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Combined Fire Authority.
Bill Boulter's Long-Standing Service
Bill Boulter represented the Wigston South Division and was first elected in 2001. During his 24 years in office, he served on various scrutiny committees, including the scrutiny commission and the environment and transport scrutiny committee. He was also a member of the employment and corporate governance committees. Boulter served as chairman of the county council for the 2014-2015 term.
Jeffrey Kaufman's Dedication
Jeffrey Kaufman represented the Oadby electoral division and was first elected to the county council in 1981, serving until 1985. He was re-elected in 2013 and served until 2021. Kaufman was primarily a member of the children and families overview and scrutiny committee and the corporate governance committee. He also served as vice chairman for the 2020-2021 county council year.
Tribute from Council Chairman
Councillor Paul Harrison, chairman of Leicestershire County Council, said: “It is a privilege to honor these former councillors for their service. Being a councillor is hard but rewarding work, and to have such dedication to serve the people in their local communities for such a long time means they richly deserve this recognition.”
A total of 19 other former councillors have previously been granted the Honorary Aldermen title. More information is available on the Honorary Aldermen webpage.
