A former town and district councillor who was ‘unfailingly supportive’ of Exmouth has been awarded the title of honorary alderwoman.

Pat Graham, who served on East Devon District Council (EDDC) for 14 years until she stepped down last year due to illness, was given the title at a meeting of the authority’s full council meeting on Wednesday, July 25.

The title of alderman or alderwoman can be given to anyone the council believes ‘has rendered eminent services to the council as past members’.

Former fellow councillors speaking at the meeting paid tribute to Pat’s time at EDDC, saying she would be talked about as someone who has ‘put Exmouth on the map for years to come’.

In receiving the award, Pat, who has Parkinson’s disease, said: “Thanks to the people of Exmouth who turned up and voted for me.

“It has been the most challenging time of my life but I had the opportunity to improve the town.

“It came to a time where I could not do the job properly anymore.

“There have been many changes in Exmouth during my time – some good, some not so good, but things are on the up now.”

She said that she will now be spending more time with husband and will still be doing some work for Exmouth in Bloom, but ‘wouldn’t be weeding the streets at 7am in the morning’.

She added: “I hope that I have made a difference to someone along the way.”

Cllr Steve Gazzard, who nominated Pat for the award, said: “When I first became a councillor, Pat became my mentor.

“I didn’t always listen to her but she was courteous towards me.

“I am sure that you will still be busy getting Exmouth plants nice and tidy and it has been a pleasure to work alongside you.”

Cllr Eileen Wragg said: “Pat has been unfailingly supportive of the town and the people – a stalwart and a real example of what is strong and stable.

“With the support of each other, she kept going and with great commitment and dedication and great sincerity.”

Cllr Pauline Stott added: “Pat has always been fair in what she had done and to the people of Exmouth.”