In 2015, Conwy Town Council began awarding the title of Honorary Bailie to two members of the community to recognise their outstanding voluntary service.

Edward 1’s 1284 Charter for Conwy allows the creation of Bailies (an alternative word for Bailiff). This year the Council wished to bestow the honour to one special individual who has served his community and the Town Council for many years.

At a ceremony held on 20th September, Mr Ray Lingwood was awarded the title of Honorary Bailie by the Mayor of Conwy & Constable of the Castle, Councillor Joan Vaughan. Mr Ray Lingwood received a framed copy of the Charter & a crystal paperweight.

Ray joined the RN Auxiliary Services where he stayed in for 17 years, based in Conwy, Llandudno Junction and then Llandudno. In the 1980’s Ray joined the Sea Cadet movement at TS Aberconwy in Deganwy. He has only recently stopped volunteering with them having given a sterling 40 years of work. Ray was known by the Cadets as ‘Chief’ and has many treasured memories of his years there.

In the 1990’s Ray became the Mayor of Conwy’s Mace Bearer. Ray, being an ex-serviceman always carried himself with confidence and held the Mace high at the head of Parades. The Town Council were so fortunate to have such an excellent Mace Bearer.

The Town Council were delighted to honour Ray as a Bailie of Conwy Town Council.

Mr Ray Lingwood with the Mayor of Conwy & Constable of the Castle, Councillor Joan Vaughan