A POPULAR and respected community leader has been honoured for her ‘tireless and outstanding service’ to Christchurch.

Burton Parish Council chairman and Christchurch Conservative agent Judy Jamieson was bestowed the title of Honorary Freeman of the Borough at full council on Tuesday.

Proposed by the Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Trish Jamieson, and seconded by Cllr David Flagg, members of the council voted unanimously to present the prestigious title.

The proposal noted “the eminent services rendered to the community by serving on Burton Parish Council since 1987 and chairman from 1999 to date.

“Working tirelessly for the residents of Burton and Christchurch in many ways, including involvement with the annual veterans day parade, Christmas lighting and regular litter picks.”

The council also noted her many years as Priory School governor and chairman of the governors.

Addressing members, the Mayor said: “Always a hard worker and someone who puts a great deal of effort into all her interests.

“She is a true perfectionist; you have to recognise this if you want to work with her in harmony.”

Independent councillor, Colin Bungey said: “I first met Judy in 1983 when we were on opposite sides of the borough election.

“Putting politics aside, she is a kind and thoughtful person outside the political arena; in the arena she is an animal and that is her job.

“A lot of people have a lot of respect for Judy and my family are just some of them.”

Long-standing councillor John Lofts added: “I want to thank her for looking after me the last 30 years.

“It takes someone in that job to be a total professional, and she has done that.”

Cllr Denise Jones said: “Her work for Help for Heroes and the armed forces has been absolutely superb.

“Judy is not just someone sitting on a committee or organising an event; she is also a very kind person.

“If you are in need you can be sure you will get a message of help and comfort from her. She deserves this accolade.”

After the vote, Mrs Jamieson said: “Thank you for the great honour. I had no idea about this at all; I have been a little below par recently and not avidly reading the council agendas. But it is a wonderful thing and from the bottom of my heart, a big thank you.”