Agenda item

Pursuant to the decision of the Court of 15 October 2015, the Lord Mayor invited Michael Welbank M.B.E. to take up the office of Chief Commoner for the ensuing year.

Resolved unanimously – That this Honourable Court wishes to extend to

William Harry Dove, O.B.E., J.P., Deputy

its heartfelt gratitude for the manner in which he has undertaken the role of Chief Commoner over the past year.

Since taking up post in April 2015, he has undertaken the many and varied tasks expected of the Chief Commoner with enthusiasm and sound judgement. He has attended at least one meeting of nearly every Grand Committee – no mean feat with the number we have at the Corporation! – and has worked tirelessly to involve himself with the full spectrum of Members’ activities. He has also been an ebullient and charismatic host at a large number of civic and hospitality events, including memorable Freedom ceremonies for such luminaries as Dame Janet Suzman, John Amaechi, Bryn Terfel, Simon Weston, Ahmed Kathrada and Dennis Goldberg. 

Having previously served as Chairman of the Education Committee, the Board of Governors of the City of London School and the Community and Children’s Services Committee, as well as having been a teacher in a past life, Billy has also used his year as Chief to continue his work with young people. He has particularly encouraged their involvement in civic activity, attending a number of events with the Chair of the City Youth Forum – informally known as the “young Lord Mayor”.

In taking leave of the late Chief Commoner and in thanking him formally and sincerely, his colleagues wish to express their appreciation, not only for his enthusiasm and hospitality during the past year, but also for his wit, consideration and courtesy and they wish him continued good health and happiness long into the future.

Deputy Billy Dove was heard in reply.