Town’s “true hero” set to be made Freeman of the borough

NORMAN Banner MBE looks set to be made an Honorary Freeman of Warrington on Monday in recognition of his long-standing service to the borough.
The honour is expected to be confirmed at an extraordinary meeting of the borough council.
Born in Grappenhall in 1947, Mr Banner has lived in Warrington his entire life and, after achieving a degree in law from Manchester Metropolitan University, has enjoyed a successful career working with a range of notable legal firms.
Outside of work, however, is where he has delivered the biggest social impact. He has been active within the community and voluntary sector for the past 40 years, including being chairman of the Warrington Committee for Disabled People from 1975 to 1992.
Mr Banner has played a pivotal role in the domiciliary care sector both regionally and nationally, serving as the chairman of Warrington Crossroads Care from 1981 to 1990 and National chairman of Crossroads Care from 1983 to 1993. He held the role of National President of Crossroads Care between 1993 and 1996, when he spoke at the Houses of Parliament.
The Mayor, Cllr Karen Mundry said: “Norman is, quite simply, an example to us all. He is one of Warrington’s true heroes and his contribution to the borough and our communities is immeasurable. He has been an active volunteer and has, for decades, helped to improve the lives of some of our most vulnerable residents.
“He is a modest man but deserves this award. If we could all ‘be more Norman’, the world would be a better place.”
Mr Banner has also held the positions of Non-Executive Director of Mersey Regional Health Authority, chairman of Warrington Hospital NHS Trust and chairman of North Cheshire Hospital.
Latterly, he was chairman of St Rocco’s Hospice from 2007 to 2017. He led St Rocco’s through a particularly challenging period and showed outstanding dedication and leadership in helping to reinvigorate the charity, introducing new physical facilities and the Hospice at Home Service, alongside in-patient, day patient and counselling services already provided.