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.”
“I am proud to support two amazing charities this year. The Duffus Community Charity, based in London Road carry out important work in creating resilience in young people and aim to prevent poor mental health and social exclusion for future generations. The other is the Brenda Kirby Cancer Charity, named after the late Councillor Brenda Kirby – a woman and representative I admired and respected, regardless of our political differences.”
Assisting the Civic Mayor in his position is the new Deputy Civic Mayor, Councillor Appu Srinivasan. Councillor Srinivasan represents Norbury Park ward, where he owns a food shop and helps out regularly at local foodbanks, demonstrating his commitment to helping others.
“It’s the honour of my life to be here. When I arrived here 30 years ago my first job was a wage worker then I became an entrepreneur. I never thought I would serve our community in such a civic role. I will serve the borough with the honesty and integrity it deserves.”
Speaking after the meeting, Executive Mayor Jason Perry welcomed the Civic Mayor and Deputy Civic Mayor to their positions.
“I would like to congratulate Councillor Pearson and Councillor Srinivasan on their new positions. Given their proven commitment to public service, I know that they will carry out the prestigious role of Civic Mayor with pride and integrity and will represent and showcase the very best of our borough.”
