Agenda item

To pass the Vote of Thanks, read informally at the last meeting of the Court, to the late Lord Mayor.

Minutes:

Resolved unanimously – That the vote of thanks read informally at the last meeting of this Honourable Court be agreed, included in the Minutes of this meeting; and that it be fairly transcribed, signed by the Town Clerk and presented in a manner agreeable to the late Lord Mayor.

 

Resolved unanimously - That the Members of this Court take great pleasure in expressing to:

 

Alderman Alan Colin Drake Yarrow

 

their most sincere thanks for the distinguished way in which he has carried out the varied demands of the Office of Lord Mayor of the City of London over the past year.

 

Whether at home or abroad, Alan has been an exemplary ambassador for the City of London, working tirelessly not only to promote the City as the world’s premier financial and professional services centre, but also to further the key theme of his mayoralty: Creating Wealth, Giving Time and Supporting People.His efforts have successfully informed a number of key initiatives aimed at promoting a better understanding of the positive role played by the financial and professional services industry, including the successful City Giving Day, which has been a showcase for the wider social benefit generated by the extensive Corporate Social Responsibility and community involvement of City firms.

 

During his time in office the Lord Mayor has undertaken an extensive overseas programme, visiting more than 25 countries. Visits to regions including the Arabian Gulf, Latin America and Asia have succeeded in fostering bilateral trade and good will, identifying commercial opportunities and, notably, deepening Commonwealth bonds. A visit to Malaysia - the country of his birth - in May reflects his own personal interests as well of those of the City financial. 

 

In addition to the overseas programme, Alan has also worked hard to support the financial and professional services industry within the United Kingdom itself with visits to a number of UK cities and the hosting of many special occasions at Mansion House and Guildhall, a highlight being the magnificent state banquet held to mark the visit of the President of Mexico. Such a wide programme has placed huge demands on the Lord Mayor but he has met this challenge unfailingly, with good sense and good humour at all times.

 

His colleagues on this Court also wish to pay tribute to Gilly, the Lady Mayoress, who has herself undertaken a varied programme with passion and commitment. Her many contributions are warmly acknowledged. In taking their leave of this, their 687th Lord Mayor, Honourable Members trust that, after a well-earned rest, he will look back on a unique year with the greatest pleasure, a justifiable pride and immense satisfaction.