Former Councillors Liz Green and Diane White Honoured as Aldermen
Former councillors Liz Green and Diane White have been honoured as Honorary Aldermen of Kingston upon Thames in recognition of their distinguished service. The title of Honorary Alderman is conferred on former councillors in recognition of their eminent service rendered as former Members of the Council, with a criterion of 12 or more years' service in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. Former councillors must also indicate that they do not intend to seek re-election.
The council meeting on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, formally conferred the title upon the former councillors, acknowledging their significant contributions to the borough. The process involves the Council resolving to confer the title pursuant to Section 249 of the Local Government Act, 1972. A special meeting on 14 July 2026 Minutes Public Pack 14072026 Council saw the initial resolution, with the formal installation and presentation of illuminated scrolls occurring at the subsequent council meeting on 13 October 2026 Agenda frontsheet Tuesday 13-Oct-2026 19.30 Council.
Both Green and White were presented with illuminated scrolls during the ceremony. Councillor Elizabeth Park praised Liz Green's down-to-earth nature and dedication, while Councillor Yogan Yoganathan highlighted her 24 years of continuous service. Councillor Ian George, representing the Conservative group, acknowledged Green's outspokenness and colourful personality. Councillor James Giles, leader of the Kingston Independent Residents' Group, commended both Green and White for their significant contributions.
Reflecting on her 24 years as a councillor, Liz Green expressed pride in her service, noting personal growth and the impact of the people she worked with. She highlighted achievements such as the Cambridge Road Estate Regeneration, which is well underway
, and borough-wide 20mph limits on local roads. Green stated, Neither, I feel, would have happened without me pushing at them.
Diane White was similarly honoured. Councillor Alison Holt described her as a mentor and Councillor Sue Ansari praised her integrity and wisdom, particularly her work in children's services and education. White was a wonderful portfolio holder for children's services and education
, during which time Achieving for Children was judged outstanding twice. She also worked tirelessly online with officers to make it happen
to help a housebound lady find suitable sheltered accommodation during lockdown.
In her acceptance speech, Green spoke of the privilege of representing residents and the lasting friendships she made. White echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the privilege of her mayoral year and the friendships forged during her time in service.