FORMER Pinhoe councillor Val Dixon is to become an honorary alderman of Exeter in a special ceremony at the Guildhall today.

Mrs Dixon joined the city council in 1996 as a ward councillor and was the first Lord Mayor of Exeter in 2002. During her mayoral year she raised nearly £25,000 for the Force Cancer Support centre appeal.

Mrs Dixon has sat on many council committees and held several positions including portfolio holder for best value and human resources. She was also deputy mayor in 1999/2000.

The current Lord Mayor, Cllr John Winterbottom, said: "Val has worked tirelessly for the city. It is only fitting that she be rewarded by appointing her as an honorary alderman."