Somerset Council is pleased to announce the proposed appointment of Christine Lawrence as an Honorary Alderwoman, recognising her outstanding and dedicated service to local government and the communities of West Somerset.
At its Full Council meeting on 25 September 2025, Somerset Council agreed to make an exception to its usual Honorary Alderman and Alderwoman Scheme, enabling Mrs Lawrence’s nomination to be considered now rather than waiting for the next elections in 2027. This special recognition is reserved for individuals who, in the opinion of the Council, have rendered eminent services as past members and are no longer serving on the Council.
Mrs Lawrence’s served both as a town and district councillor before being elected to Somerset County Council in 2001, representing the Dunster division. Following the formation of Somerset Council in April 2023, she continued her service until her resignation in September 2025. Over her distinguished career, Mrs Lawrence has held several key roles, including:
- First woman Chair of Somerset County Council (2015)
- First portfolio holder for public health following its transfer from the NHS to the local authority in 2013
- First Chair of the Health and Well-Being Board
- Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care
- Member of the Adults and Health Scrutiny Committee, Strategic Planning Committee, and the Local Community Network for Minehead and Watchet
- Council representative on Exmoor National Park Authority
Honorary Alderman and Alderwoman appointments are lifetime honours, conferred by a special resolution of the Full Council and awarded to those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and service. Recipients are presented with a Certificate of Conferral and a Badge of Office and are invited to participate in civic ceremonial events.
The Council extends its gratitude to Mrs Lawrence for her unwavering dedication to the people of Somerset.
Christine Lawrence said:
“I would like to thank the Council, the parish councils I worked with for many years and my communities for their kind words regarding my role as a former councillor and for the privilege of being appointed as an Alderwoman of Somerset Council.”
Councillor Mike Best, Chair of Somerset Council, said:
“Christine Lawrence’s long and distinguished career in public service stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to the people and communities of West Somerset. Over more than three decades, Christine has served with integrity, compassion, and a deep understanding of the needs of her constituents.”
