Former Lord Mayor knighted in New Year’s Honours list

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Peter Estlin, who will formally take the reins from Charles Bowman on 9 November, was made Lord Mayor-elect during Common Hall on 1 October, and described the City as a
Peter Estlin, who will formally take the reins from Charles Bowman on 9 November, was made Lord Mayor-elect during Common Hall on 1 October, and described the City as a "national asset" as he surveyed the choppy waters he is poised to help navigate from next month.

Former Lord Mayor of the City of London, Peter Estlin, has been awarded a knighthood for services to international business, inclusion and skills in the New Year’s Honours.

Peter was commended for his work as Lord Mayor in 2018-2019, during which he visited 47 cities in 26 countries to promote the UK financial and professional services sector.

He also launched future.now, a new coalition of leading companies, digital skills providers and charities working in collaboration with government to empower everyone to thrive in a digital UK.

Peter was also recognised for his efforts to support the charitable and voluntary sectors, including his Lord Mayor’s Appeal and as a founder patron of OnSide Youth Zones.

Mr Estlin said: “I am truly honoured to be awarded a knighthood in the New Year’s Honours.”

“I am also truly grateful to all those who supported my efforts to promote the sheer scale of innovation taking place across the UK, as well as those joining me in ensuring the UK rises to the challenges and opportunities of the digital revolution.”

Meanwhile, two City of London Corporation staff members have been honoured in the New Year’s Honours.

Geoff Pick, Director of the London Metropolitan Archives (LMA), has been awarded an OBE for services to the management of records and archives in the capital. Geoff joined the LMA in 1986 and became Director in 2013, having worked as a professional archivist since 1978.

Under his direction, the LMA has played a pioneering role in areas such as digital archiving, engaging with the public and promoting diversity through work with the LBTQ+ and BAME communities.

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Mr Pick said: “I’m delighted to receive this honour. Having worked as an archivist for over 40 years, I know how important it is to maintain London’s historical record, safeguarding knowledge, improving understanding, inspiring participation, and supporting good public governance. I’d like to thank my colleagues and family for their support over the decades.”

Carol Boswarthack, head of Barbican and community libraries at the City of London Corporation, was also recognised with an MBE.

Carol first started working as a library assistant in Tower Hamlets when she was 16. She joined the City Corporation in 2007, having also worked for the London boroughs of Camden, Waltham Forest and Redbridge.

Ms Boswarthack, said: “It’s a real privilege to be honoured for a job that I’ve loved all my life. It’s been a delight to work with members of all our communities to make sure libraries stay relevant for everyone.

“This is an honour for all our staff and anybody who works in any library, anywhere.”

John Barradell, Town Clerk and chief executive of the City of London Corporation, added: “I would like to congratulate Geoff and Carol for being deservedly recognised in the New Year’s Honours.

“They have both played an important role in delivering services that benefit local communities across London and represent the very best of City Corporation staff.”