The Ceremonial Council of Barking and Dagenham Council met on Wednesday 24 September 2025 to confer honorary titles. The council unanimously agreed to award the Honorary Freedom of the Borough to the Dagenham Girl Pipers and to bestow the title of Honorary Alderwoman upon Jean Alexander.

Honorary Freedom of the Borough for the Dagenham Girl Pipers

The council voted to award the Honorary Freedom of the Borough to the Dagenham Girl Pipers. This is the highest accolade the council can bestow, recognising individuals or organisations that have served the borough with distinction.

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership & Engagement, proposed the nomination, highlighting the Dagenham Girl Pipers' near 95-year history since their formation in 1930. She noted their international performances across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and America, stating, The Dagenham Girl Pipers certainly tick that box and more. Councillor Ashraf also recalled their significant contributions to local civic occasions, including remembrance services and marking the passing of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Development, seconded the nomination, drawing parallels to historical cultural exchanges and praising the band's success. He spoke of their role in fostering friendship amongst communities and their pride in Barking and Dagenham. Councillor Phil Waker also spoke in support, reminiscing about the band's consistent presence at remembrance marches in Dagenham Village and expressing concern about their potential future, hoping the award might act as a springboard to help them reform. Councillor Elizabeth Kangethe and Councillor Andy Achilleos, Chair of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee, also voiced their strong support, underscoring the band's global reach and their integral role in the borough's identity.

The nomination was agreed by all members present.

Honorary Alderwoman for Jean Alexander

The council also unanimously agreed to confer the title of Honorary Alderwoman upon Jean Alexander. This honour is awarded to former councillors who have rendered eminent service to the council.

Councillor Cameron Geddes proposed the nomination, recounting Jean Alexander's extensive service as a councillor representing Gascoigne, Abbey, and Eastbury wards between 1990 and 2018. He highlighted her roles as Cabinet Member for Children's and Enforcement portfolios from 2000 to 2014, her chairmanship of other committees, and her service on governing bodies for five educational establishments. Councillor Geddes also credited her with inaugurating the Classical Concert in the Abbey Ruins and serving on the Board of the London Youth Games. He noted her long-standing commitment to the Labour Party and her family's deep roots in Barking Town Centre, stating, Her commitment to the people of the Borough has been inspirational.

Councillor Muhammad Saleem, Chair of the Planning Committee, seconded the nomination.

During the discussion, Councillor Geddes shared personal anecdotes about Jean Alexander's early days as a councillor, including her experiences as a woman in local politics and her significant impact on his own life following the death of Joe Richardson. He also spoke of her dedication to various council roles, including education and enforcement, and her strong working relationships with council officers and the police. He paid tribute to her husband, Tony, for his support throughout her public service.

The nomination was agreed by all members present.