This morning I attended the historic West Ham All Saints Church to take part in the Remembrance Sunday service. I was there as a local West Ham Ward Councillor and Deputy Statutory Mayor, representing Newham Council and our Mayor, Forhad Hussain.
It was a privilege to lay a wreath on behalf of the Council and the Mayor, who was attending the Remembrance service at the Cenotaph in Central Park.
Newham's Corporate Director for Housing and Inclusive Economy, Paul Kitson, also laid a wreath on behalf of the Chief Executive and all Council staff. My colleague, Cllr Simon Rushton, laid a wreath on behalf of our local MP, James Asser, who was attending another Remembrance event elsewhere in Canning Town.
Representatives from the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, Territorial Army 7 Rifles, Royal Navy Sea Cadets and, of course, the Royal British Legion also laid wreaths, alongside the Church and several other local organisations.
All three recently elected West Ham Ward Councillors were present: myself, Cllr Ibrahim Alom and Cllr Adjoa Kwarteng, who gave a beautiful reading during the service.
It was a wonderful and moving occasion. Many thanks to Maria for leading the service, as well as to the choir, organist, volunteers and everyone who helped organise and support the event.
I have also asked whether, for next year's Remembrance Sunday, all stakeholders might explore opportunities to involve other faith communities in our Newham commemorations. Remembrance belongs to us all, and it would be fitting to reflect both the traditions we cherish and the diversity of the community we serve, while honouring the memory of all those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
(Bottom left photo from Newham 1st Scouts outside my surgery yesterday in Vicarage Lane)
Lest we forget.
Following the service, Paul and I had to leave in order to visit nearby Council housing blocks affected by a significant water outage. We met local councillors, Newham Council staff on site and residents to discuss the situation and the ongoing response.
I had indicated that, should the matter not be resolved, I would return first thing tomorrow morning. However, I understand that the water supply has now been restored. Nevertheless, I have requested a full review of what happened and will be visiting the blocks again on Thursday to speak with residents and follow up on the lessons learned.
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