BOROUGH councillors have paid tribute to a former long-serving colleague by proposing that he be elected honorary alderman.

Councillor Kate Wheller put forward Andy Hutchings for the rare honour at the annual meeting of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council at Weymouth Pavilion.

The motion was seconded by fellow councillors Paul Kimber, Kay Wilcox and Mark Tewkesbury - and will now go before a special council meeting on July 26 for a decision.

The proposal comes after popular Mr Hutchings lost his cherished Westham North seat - which he held for 24 years - in the recent local elections.

Speaking at the meeting, Coun Wheller said: "I'm sure all members will agree with me that Andy is a worthy candidate.

"He served his residents unstintingly with his larger than life presence and his wit and wisdom."

She added: "I will miss you Andy. The people of Westham and the whole borough will join me in thanking you for being you."

Mr Hutchings joined Wey-mouth and Portland Borough Council in May 1983 and went on to serve local people in both Westham and Southill.

There was disbelief at the elections earlier this month when he was ousted by councillor Brendan Webster after nearly a quarter of a century.

Mr Hutchings was delighted at Coun Wheller's proposal. He called the prospect of being handed the title a 'very great honour'.

He said: "I enjoyed my time on the council. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience to serve 24 years for the people of Westham and this would be an honour."