John Reynolds, Milkinder Jaspal and Caroline Siarkiewicz were conferred with the honour at an Extraordinary Meeting of the City of Wolverhampton Council this afternoon (Wednesday 15 July, 2026).

Honorary Aldermen can attend Full Council meetings in a non-participating capacity and are invited to various functions such as Civic Sunday, Remembrance Sunday and other appropriate civic events. The names of Honorary Aldermen are also inscribed on a roll of honour at the Civic Centre.

Mr Reynolds gave 28 years of dedicated service to Wolverhampton and represented residents in Graiseley Ward. During his time on the council, he held various leadership roles, including Cabinet responsibilities for Children and Young People and City Economy. He also chaired the Governance and Ethics Committee and made significant contributions across scrutiny panels, regulatory committees and advisory bodies.

Mr Jaspal gave more than 34 years of service to Wolverhampton. During his distinguished council career, he served as Mayor of Wolverhampton, as a Cabinet Member, and as Chair of the West Midlands Pension Fund. He also represented Wolverhampton on regional organisations, including Birmingham Airport, where he became the youngest and first ethnic minority director appointed to its board.

Mrs Siarkiewicz gave 21 years of distinguished service to Wolverhampton, representing residents of Heath Town Ward. Throughout her time as a councillor, she played an active role on a range of regulatory committees, scrutiny panels, reviews and advisory bodies, helping to shape council services and support local communities across the city.

The three former councillors were presented with badges of office following the conferment of the title.

Councillor Stephen Simkins, Leader of the City of Wolverhampton Council, said: "John Reynolds, Milkinder Jaspal and Caroline Siarkiewicz have each made an exceptional contribution to Wolverhampton through many years of dedicated public service.

"Between them they have served our city for more than 80 years, taking on key leadership roles, helping shape important decisions and working tirelessly on behalf of residents and communities.

"I had the pleasure of working alongside all three of these former councillors and can say for certain that they have each served Wolverhampton with dedication, commitment and distinction. 

"The title of Honorary Alderman is a fitting recognition of their service, and I am delighted that the council has been able to acknowledge their achievements in this way."