Labour councillors took a trip down memory lane recently and reflected on a defining milestone in the history of Trafford Council.

It was 50 years ago that an incredible landmark was reached; when the municipal boroughs of Altrincham, Sale and Stretford joined with the district councils of Bowdon, Hale and Urmston and the parishes of Carrington, Partington, Dunham Massey and Warburton.

It was the early 70s, and at the time ministers decided to abolish the existing local government structures in favour of a two-tier system of counties and districts in England and Wales.

This resulted in Trafford Council receiving the Honorary Royal British Charter on April 1, 1972, placing the borough firmly on the map.

During the authority’s recent Annual General Meeting, councillors past and present shared their memories of how the borough had evolved over the past five decades.

Cllr Barry Brotherton, who attended the very first council meeting, explained that he was not only at the birth of Trafford Council, but he was also at its conception.

He said: “The government at the time decided to reorganise local authorities, which resulted in the arrangements we have today.

“However, like all new births, there was an argument about what to name the borough, with all sorts of suggestions being floated about.

“In legislation we were actually known as district 12G, but eventually it was agreed that we adopt the name Trafford, which has served us well over the years.

“However, 50 years on I’ve seen a big change to the council’s constitution – we now have far more younger people representing their communities including parents of young families, more women, and more people from ethnic minorities.

“We are certainly more reflective of the general public than we were – and that is an excellent thing.”

Cllr Zak Deakin, who represents Sale Central, paid tribute to Cllr Brotherton for representing his community for so long.

He said: “It is a truly impressive feat of service and commitment, which I know residents really appreciate mainly because I’m regularly reminded of what a local icon Barry is.

“As a new councillor, I’m sure I speak for other recent cohorts when I say it is quite an eyeopener to see the extensive work and services the council is responsible for.

“In addition to the dedication of officers and frontline staff who work tirelessly to support the borough’s residents at all stages of their lives.

“This is a fantastic borough – and I would like to thank everyone who has done so much throughout Trafford’s proud history as well as all those who are working hard to deliver a brighter future for us.”

In a recording to mark the council’s 50th birthday celebrations former Mayor, Whit Stennett MBE, who served almost 30 years as a councillor, said he choose to live in Trafford because he knew it was a place that would make him feel welcome and at home.

He added: “Moving to the borough has been more than a blessing. It’s such a diverse community – and I applaud Trafford for that.

“During my time, I saw a number of changes, but what will always stay with me is the council’s moto: Hold fast that which is good.”

The main birthday celebrations taking place during this year’s Trafford Live on Sunday 7th July, from 11am to 2pm, at the town hall and Emirates Old Trafford.