Admission of Honorary Aldermen and Alderwomen
To consider the Admission of Honorary Aldermen and Alderwomen in the following terms;
That this Council do hereby admit to the Roll of Honorary Aldermen and Alderwoman of the Borough, the following former Councillors, in deserved recognition of eminent and valued public service as elected Councillors of the London Borough of Croydon:
Donald Speakman and Valerie Shawcross OBE
That the Common Seal be affixed to a copy of this Resolution.
Minutes:
SPECIAL COUNCIL
The Mayor announced a break from the agenda of the Ordinary Council Meeting to hold a Special Council Meeting and admit Valerie Shawcross CBE and Donald Speakman to the Honorary Roll of Alderwomen and Aldermen for the London Borough of Croydon.
The motion to move the recommendation from the Mayoralty and Honorary Freedom Selection Sub-Committee was moved by the Leader, Councillor Newman and seconded by Councillor Tim Pollard. The motion was put to the vote and unanimously agreed.
The Leader paid tribute to Valerie Shawcross. He noted his amazement that it was 19 years ago that she had last sat in the Chamber as Leader; her admission as an Honorary Alderwoman was in recognition of her contribution to Croydon which had seen her oversee the transformation of the borough into a modern Council. Particular mention was made of her focus on policy development and education. The Leader highlighted that Ms Shawcross had gone on to be elected to the Greater London Assembly, where she became a Deputy Mayor and made a significant impact on the capital’s transportation. The Leader described how her example would encourage other women to get involved.
Councillor Pollard, expressed his delight in speaking in support of Donald Speakman. It was noted that he had been part of the cohort of 2002 and had served the people of Purley with passion for over 16 years. Mr Speakman was described as a very kind man who could be relied on for his support. His involvement with and contribution to tribunals was specifically noted and his admission to the roll of Honorary Alderman was described as entirely appropriate.
The Mayor then presented Valerie Shawcross CBE and Donald Speakman with their citations and gifts.
This brought the Special Council Meeting to a close.