Introduction

In May 2002, the people of Newham chose their first directly elected mayor. The civic and ceremonial role performed by the mayors under the old system is now carried out by the Civic Ambassador. The current Civic Ambassador is Cllr Maureen Jones (left) appointed May 2005.

As well as the important job of chairing meetings of the council, the Civic Ambassador supports charities and good causes, promotes the borough, welcomes official visitors, opens galas and events, makes presentations, greets guests and speaks at hundreds of events.

Charities

Each year the Civic Ambassador chooses one or more charities in Newham to raise money for. Throughout the year money is raised and paid into the Newham Civic Ambassador's Benevolent Fund (NCAB Fund), from where it is distributed at the end of the Civic Year.

This year the Civic Ambassador has chosen CYANA - Cancer You Are Not Alone as her charity. CYANA was formed in 1983 to give support to anyone in Newham and the surrounding boroughs affected by cancer, whether patient, friend, partner, relative or carer.

If you would like to help this worthy cause please contact the Civic Officer, stephanie.nunn@newham.gov.uk. If you would like to make a donation, cheques should be made payable to the NCAB Fund and sent to the Civic Officer, Newham Town Hall, Barking Road, East Ham E6 2RP.