1946
(489)
(Postal and Telegraph Officer).
Born at Leicester on the 26th July, 1890, of parents who were both of families entered on the Borough Roll of Freemen; he is himself a Freeman.
An initial elementary education was followed by considerable self study, supplemented by Evening Classes, Summer Schools, etc. This was further added to by trips abroad for the purpose of studying continental social customs and administration.
He commenced work as a half, timer when only 11 years of age and on leaving School entered the Post Office as a Messenger. From this he has progressed through various appointments as Postman, Sorting Clerk and Telegraphist, to the position of Postal and Telegraph Officer, which he now holds.
As a youth he interested himself in Institute and Temperance activities, and this paved the way for his entry into Trade Union work, in which movement he has held office of local, area and national status for an unbroken period of 40 years with the Union of Post Office Workers.
Associated with the Leicester and District Trades Council for a long period he was elected to the much coveted Presidency in 1926 (the year of the General Strike) and in the same year was elected President of the Leicester Labour Party; the latter being in recognition of many years of propaganda work in various Socialist Societies.
Though giving first preference to social problems Alderman Smith has balanced his activities by participation in athletics, having taken part in cross country running, track races and football.
A non-smoker and a teetotaller, his advocacy of temperance has for some years been on educational lines.
Elected to the City Council in November, 1924.
Has served on various Committees of the Council including Housing, Health, Water, Watch and Education, and is Chairman of the Museum and Libraries Committee.
Appointed a Justice of the Peace in 1933. High Bailiff of the City in 1942, 1943.
He was raised to the Aldermanic Bench on October 2nd, 1945.
Married in 1930 Nora Irene Kibert, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. James Kibert, by whom he has issue, one son.
Residence: Wyngate Drive, Leicester.
