FOUR long-serving former city councillors have been made honorary aldermen - with lavish tributes paid to their commitment.

Councillor Derek Prodger, who still sits on Worcestershire County Council, ex-Labour stalwarts Clifford Lord and Jeff Carpenter, and former Tory politician Robert Rowden have all been handed the accolade after being described as "legends".

It was voted through unanimously during a city council meeting on Thursday night, where current serving politicians heaped praise on them.

Labour Councillor Adrian Gregson, the city's leader, said: "This is a matter which has been under discussion for a while now.

"It's a title which has not been used in this council for a long time - we do feel that in recent years we've seen a number of people spend a long time on this council and then disappear into the night, without proper recognition."

Councillor Marc Bayliss, who leads the Conservative group, said: "I've felt for a very long time that people are allowed to serve this city, and this council of ours, and then disappear into the ether without the thanks or gratitude they deserve.

"The four people whose names are listed, are legends on this council really.

"Anybody who has been in this city for the last 25, 30, 40 years would have seen their names in the press, sometimes criticised when things don't go their way, but also for the recognition of their efforts for the city."

He called Mr Rowden "the victorious leader" as when he led the city council for two years in 2000, it was the first time the Guildhall came under Conservative control in two decades.

A special event will now be organised in the coming weeks to confer the title of Honorary Alderman on all four

Councillor Prodger retired from the city council last year after a remarkable 34 years' service at the Guildhall.

Mr Lord, who first came to Worcester aged six, was first elected to the city council in 1950 for the St Martin ward until 1955.

He returned in 1984 and was elected to the Holy Trinity ward for 12 years until 1996, spending time as city mayor.

Mr Carpenter was first elected in 1973 and served 27 years in the St Martin ward.

A former mayor himself, he also held various positions overseeing planning and the arts.

Mr Rowden stood down last year after 25 years’ service in Battenhall, and after becoming leader in 2000 was appointed mayor in 2002.

Their names will be added to the 'Roll of Honorary Aldermen' displayed in the Guildhall, and they will be presented with certificates and badges at the special ceremony.