L-r Mark Bryant, Lesley Blowers, Brock Whiston, Father Hingley

Havering Council has rewarded distinguished members of the community, as well as current and former councillors, for their exceptional service to the borough.

Havering Council held an extraordinary council meeting last night (Wednesday 4 December) to honour distinguished members of the community, as well as current and former councillors, for their exceptional service to the borough. 

Honorary Awards were given to the following individuals, who were nominated for Freedom of the Borough:

  • Ken Hay – D-Day Veteran and Ambassador for the British Normandy Memorial, nominated by Councillor Gillian Ford, seconded by Councillor Jacqueline Williams.
  • Lesley Blowers – Community and Youth Champion, nominated by Councillor Trevor McKeever, seconded by Councillor Matt Stanton.
  • Mark Bryant – Former Deputy Lieutenant for Her Majesty the late Queen Elizabeth II, nominated by Councillor Stephanie Nunn, seconded by Councillor Barry Mugglestone.
  • Father Hingley – Mayor’s Chaplain and Vicar of St. Alban Protomartyr Church since 1992, nominated by Councillor Judith Holt, seconded by Councillor Martin Goode.
  • Brock Whiston – Paralympic gold medallist, nominated by Councillor Jason Frost, seconded by Councillor Ray Morgon.

Additionally, those nominated for the Freedom of the Borough for Long Service were:

  • Former Councillor John Mylod
  • Former Councillor Ron Ower
  • Councillor Reg Whitney
  • Councillor Michael White

The title of Alderman/woman was also voted on by Full Council, and awarded to:

  • Former Councillor Wendy Brice-Thompson
  • Former Councillor Jeffrey Tucker

These nominations have been made by Councillor Ray Morgon and seconded by Councillor Keith Prince.

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Ray Morgon, expressed his gratitude for the dedication and service of the honourees: 

"We are incredibly proud to recognise the outstanding contributions of these individuals.

"Their commitment and service have made a significant impact on our community, and it is an honour to celebrate their achievements.”

The special meeting took place on Wednesday 4 December 2024, at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber at the Town Hall, Romford. 

Published: 5 December 2024