Former Bradford Council leader Margaret Eaton spoke of her pride after being ceremonially introduced to the House of Lords as Baroness Eaton today.

She was elevated to the House of Lords in recognition of her service to local government.

Councillor Eaton, who already has an OBE and was made a Dame Commander in last year's New Year Honours List, was included on a 56-strong list of new Peers announced by Downing Street in the Dissolution Honours List at the end of the last Parliament.

Speaking to the Telegraph & Argus after today’s ceremony, Baroness Eaton said: “I feel it’s a great honour and a great privilege.

“It was a very impressive occasion and, although very formal, it was also very warm and welcoming.

“I look forward to being part of it.”

During the ceremony, Baroness Eaton was led through the main doors of the House of Lords by Black Rod and the Garter Principal King of Arms.

A letter sent by the Queen was then read out before Baroness Eaton took the Oath of Allegiance.

Baroness Eaton said: “It takes place in front of all the other peers, so I was slightly nervous.”

Baroness Eaton is chairman of the Local Government Association and is a former chairman of the Conservative Councillors’ Association.

She led Bradford Council from 2000 to 2006 and still represents the Bingley Rural ward as a Conservative councillor.

Among other new peers was former home secretary John Reid, who was introduced to the House of Lords as Lord Reid of Cardowan.

The Labour peer was raised to the Upper House after standing down at this year’s General Election following 23 years in the Commons serving Scottish constituencies.

Liberal Democrat Matthew Taylor was also introduced to the Lords today.