VISIT BY HIS WORSHIP THE MAYOR OF CROYDON

Councillor Tony Pearson was appointed as Croydon’s new Civic Mayor, for the 2023-24 civic year, at Wednesday night’s Annual Council meeting.

Croydon has an elected Mayor with executive powers which is complemented by the role of Civic Mayor who undertakes ceremonial and public duties across the borough.

Councillor Pearson is an active member of the New Addington community, representing the New Addington South ward. He also represented the ward May 2010 to 2014.

Outside of his work as a councillor, he is a funeral arranger and conductor for a local family-run funeral company based in New Addington.

Councillor Pearson has strong ties with the local armed forces, serving as a former member of the Regular Army and former Commanding Officer of the local Nautical Training Corps. He is a strong supporter of Help for Heroes and SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association) charities and is a former Chairman of New Addington Royal British Legion.

Councillor Pearson was also Chair of Governors at Selsdon High and Vice Chair of Governors of Rowdown Primary School in New Addington.

The new Civic Mayor lives in New Addington with his wife Maria, who will serve as Mayoress for the year.

After taking up the position, Councillor Pearson said: “Being the borough’s First Citizen is a privilege and an honour. I look forward to getting out and about in the borough and meeting many of our fantastic residents.”