New alderman tells of pride over honour

A Black Country borough's newest honorary alderman today spoke of his joy and surprise at the honour.

Joshua Churchman, now a Sandwell alderman, was the first mayor of the new county borough of West Bromwich in 1966.

The councillor served 23 years in total and was nominated by friend and Black Country historian Terry Price. Mr Churchman said: "It did come as a surprise, I never thought much about it, it's a bit overwhelming. When you've been mayor you feel it is the highest accolade. This is even more than that."

Mr Churchman, aged 87, of Denbigh Road, Tipton, was born in 1922 in Whitehall Road, Greets Green.

He attended Greets Green Junior School and George Salter School before leaving at 14 and working as a wood cutting machinist.

He joined Walsall Conduits as a charge hand in 1940 where he stayed for 22 years. He also worked for the Oriental Tube Co. Ltd, West Bromwich.

The father-of-three said: "I was interested in politics through the trade unions.

"There was a man in Tipton who thought I might like to be on the council and he persuaded me to stand."

He stood twice unsuccessfully before winning a seat in Tipton in 1951 and served on the former Tipton and West Bromwich councils between 1951 and 1974. He was the first mayor of the county borough of West Bromwich in 1966.

He represented the Horseley Heath ward from 1951-54 and from 1959-79. Until recently he worked for charitable organisations in the community and is still president of Sandwell Age Concern.

Mr Churchman, who lost his wife Violet three years ago, added: "I always enjoyed it, my wife was a very keen as well. Getting something done and helping people is the main thing."

An honorary alderman must have served on the council for a minimum of 12 years or have given 'eminent or notable' service.

As an alderman they are entitled to attend council meetings, receive details and agendas, walk in civic processions and wear the badge of office of honorary alderman on civic occasions.