Robert Parkinson has served as President of Erewash Conservative Association since 2024, succeeding the late Mrs Annette Noskwith CBE.
He was first elected to local government as a Councillor on South East Derbyshire Rural District Council, before being elected to the newly formed Erewash Borough Council at its inaugural election in 1973. Representing the Breaston Ward, he served continuously until 2023.
During his time on Erewash Borough Council, Robert served as Leader from 1976 to 1990 and again from 2003 to 2007. He was also Mayor of Erewash from 2010 to 2011.
Robert also represented the Breaston Division on Derbyshire County Council, serving from 1967 to 1970 and again from 1977 until his retirement in 2025. Over the course of his county council service, he held numerous roles, including a year as Civic Chairman. Upon his retirement, he was made an Alderman of Derbyshire County Council in recognition of his long and distinguished service to the authority.
In 2024, in recognition of his exceptional and longstanding service to Erewash Borough Council, Robert was granted Freedom of the Borough, one of the highest honours the council can bestow.
Outside politics, Robert has long been a prominent figure in the equestrian community, including serving as President of South Derbyshire Saddle Club. He was also a committee member for the historic Bakewell Show.
Robert lives in Breaston, where he has served continuously as a Parish Councillor since 1965.