Pioneering Asian councillor receives honour

A trailblazing Asian councillor who began volunteering in his community in the 1970s has been honoured by his peers.

Charles Choudhary was the first non-white councillor of Rushmoor for the Conservatives when he was elected in 1987.

"His impact on local issues, particularly in making services more accessible has been significant," said Mr Choudhary's daughter Attika.

She said his selfless early work demonstrated his "deep-rooted commitment to helping others".

Her father would go on to represent the people of Aldershot on Hampshire County Council from 2013 to 2021.

"His tenure as a Hampshire County Councillor, further solidified his standing as a leader committed to making a lasting difference in the region," Ms Choudhary said.

Mr Choudhary was granted the title of Honorary Alderman at a special council ceremony on 28 November.

His daughter said what set her father apart was "not just his long service, but the way in which he has consistently volunteered his time and energy to support the local community".

Her father's behind-the-scenes work has helped various sectors, from education to social services, she said.

Paying tribute the leader of Hampshire County Council, Nick Adams-King, said: "The title of Honorary Alderman is made to recognise the eminent service of former county councillors who are no longer elected members of the council.

"To be awarded Honorary Alderman status is a mark of the distinction with which these former councillors have served the county council, and the whole community of Hampshire."

You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.