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Plaque tribute to a veteran who fought on many fronts
• I WOULD like to thank Islington Council for honouring my late father, Bill Bayliss, with a plaque at the entrance to the council chamber at Islington Town Hall (War hero Bayliss to be honoured with plaque, December 5). I am particularly grateful to John Lynch, head of democratic services, for taking this forward and involving me in the various proposals which were considered.
Some younger readers, or those who have not lived in Islington for long, might be excused for picturing Bill simply as an outspoken critic of aspects of council policy in the last years of his life.
He was certainly that, but the honour recognises his immense lifelong contribution to so many facets of life in Islington as a leading councillor, widely-respected teacher and youth volunteer, poppy appeal co-ordinator, pensioners’ champion and outing organiser, magistrate, church homeless project worker and very much more besides.
Bill was driven by a passion to devote as much as possible of his very considerable energy and ability to the borough he loved and its people. And (aside from his teacher’s salary) it was all given freely.
Incidentally, last week’s Tribune stated that Bill was deputy leader under Margaret Hodge. He wasn’t; it was Gerry Southgate.
Those who recall the intricacies of Islington politics during the 1970s and 1980s may join me in thinking that he might just turn in his grave if this were not corrected.
ROBERT BAYLISS
Ockendon Road, N1
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