Lilian was first elected as a local, independent Councillor in 2015 and just two years later was made the Lord Mayor of Stoke on Trent in recognition of her outstanding contribution to public life. Lilian is one of few people who can genuinely say that they have been involved in charitable work and fundraising for more than 50 years. Lilian is seen below with her husband Alan who is a tremendous source of support in her busy life.
During her time as a local Councillor, Lilian has been an active member of a number of corporate groups. Lilian chaired the Human Resources Committee and spoke out against budget cuts proposed by the City Council that would adversely affect the lowest paid members of staff at the City Council.
Lilian has been active in supporting her friends and neighbours in Dresden for the best part of 50 years. One of her first endeavours was a campaign to keep open a local primary school – needless to say, with Lilian’s drive and energy, the school stayed open. Lilian is proud to be an active member of the Dresden Residents’ Association and held the post of Secretary of the Dresden Residents Association for some years.
Lilian is also the Chairman of the Dresden Scout Group, Secretary of the North Staffs Armed Forces Committee and a member of the Queen’s Park Partnership. Not to mention, an active Trustee for the Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank a founder member of Knit and Natter and countless other groups with the best interests of local people at heart.
Lilian’s active and practical support to young care leavers stretches back over many years. But it was during one of the 600 or more visits that she made to events, local businesses and local people during her year as the most active Lord Mayor the City has ever had, that she realised that the network she had developed could be such a great source of support to young people leaving care. The idea of Symmetrical was born. Lilian’s energy and dedication set such an example to others that offers of help and support are always forthcoming. What better person could there be to Chair the Symmetrical Board.