Newly elected Chief Commoner expresses gratitude for new role

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Newly elected Chief Commoner expresses excitement for new role
Chief Commoner Ann Holmes

The latest incumbent of an office that dates back to 1444 has told of her ‘enormous privilege’ of taking on their new role.

Ann Holmes, who has been installed at the Square Mile’s Chief Commoner, has lived in the Farringdon Within ward for more than two decades, half of which has been spent representing her patch on the City of London Corporation.

Holmes, a court assistant with the Worshipful Company of Cordwainers, was elected by the Court of Common Council – the organisation’s primary decision-making body.

Her passions sit within the field of education, and she has chaired the governing bodies of two of the City Corporation’s family of schools, as well as its Education Board. Her background is in teaching, research and management.

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Holmes’ main responsibilities will be to function as a City Corporation ambassador at ceremonial occasions and work to uphold the rights and privileges of the organisation’s elected Members.

She will succeed Simon Duckworth as Chief Commoner and will spend one year in office.

She said: “It is an enormous privilege to be elected to this role. I am looking forward to the opportunities it will give me to build a vibrant and constructive relationship with Members, City workers and residents alike.

“As a resident with a huge interest in culture, I look forward to using my convening powers to help the City continue to develop as a financial centre, cultural hub and a place people are proud to live in.”

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