Councillor Marcus Franks to be Honourary Alderman

West Berkshire Council have given the title of Honourary Alderman, to Councillor Marcus Franks who passed away last month following a battle with bowel cancer.

Marcus was first elected to the Speen Ward of West Berkshire Council in May 2003, then successfully re-elected in 2007,2011 and 2015.

He held a number of positions on the Executive at West Berkshire Council, including being Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing, Partnerships, Equality and Community Safety and Communities and Public Protection.

Most recently, he was the Portfolio Holder for Community Resilience and Partnerships before standing down in this role.

He was also involved in many committees over the years, including the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee, Western Area Planning, the Health and Wellbeing Board, Newbury Town Centre Task Group and the Joint Public Protection Committee.

Nicola Franks, Marcus’ wife said, “Marcus was honoured when he was told that the council wanted to award him the title of Honorary Alderman.

“He was extremely proud of all that he had achieved during his 16 years on the council and even in his last few days, despite his illness, Marcus enthusiastically shared his visions and ideas which he believed would benefit the residents of Speen and West Berkshire in the future.

“It goes without saying that I, Adam, Klara, and Marcus’ family are also extremely proud of the man Marcus was and all that he had achieved as a Councillor. We thank the council for this recognition of his achievements.”

In a message to residents last year Marcus stressed importance of regular bowel checks for under-50s, saying that, although instances in bowel cancer in those under-50 is fortunately not common, it is important to consult your doctor early if you have any related symptoms.

More information about Bowel Cancer. 

See more about the Honourary Aldermen of West Berkshire.