Agenda item

Resolved - That on the occasion of his retirement from the City of London Corporation, this Honourable Court wishes to place on record it's great appreciation of the work, over nearly four decades, of

Peter John Nelson,

a career culminating in twenty years as Assistant Town Clerk.

As a new Councilman or Alderman, the first face you see, and one of the most welcoming, is Peter's. If you listen to his advice you won't go far wrong. Peter is the epitome of what we, as Members, appreciate and value in a Corporation Officer. He has many virtues but in particular he is a good listener. He has been our mentor, our guide and our adviser and his wise, but firm, counsel has kept many of us on the straight and narrow.

Peter's understanding of the organisation is priceless. He has supported this Honourable Court through many decades and knows more about the Corporation than most of us here in Guildhall. He is one of those rare individuals who really cares very much about his work and has played a significant role in ensuring that the City Corporation holds the status that it does today. He has become an institution within an institution!

We particularly commend Peter in his building of a strong relationship with the Livery, establishing good communication and a firm foundation for the future. His crowning glory must be his enjoyable and memorable speeches to Common Hall.

In his private life, Peter is a great traveller and this has occasionally led to a few close shaves! For those of you who do not know, this is mainly linked to his lifetime interest in aviation. We were always relieved to see him returned to us safe and sound.

We welcome the opportunity to pay a wholehearted and sincere tribute to Peter for his significant contribution to the work of this Court over many years and we are united in expressing the hope that he will enjoy a long, happy retirement with time to savour many happy memories of his years with the City of London Corporation.