The Full Council of Hammersmith & Fulham Council met on Thursday 21 May 2026. The meeting's agenda included discussions on conferring honorary titles upon former councillors and a resident for their distinguished service to the borough.

Honorary Aldermen and Alderwomen

The council was scheduled to consider conferring the honorary title of Honorary Alderman or Alderwoman of the Borough on three individuals: Sue Fennimore, Caroline Needham, and Alex Karmel. This honour is bestowed upon past members of the council who have, in the council's opinion, rendered eminent services to the borough.

• Caroline Needham was nominated for her exceptional dedication as a Labour Councillor for Askew Ward between 2010 and 2018. Her service focused on tackling inequality, reducing child poverty, and championing the rights and wellbeing of residents. She is noted for her work with young people, including developing the roles of Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor, and her professional background in social policy research. Beyond her elected role, she has volunteered with West London Welcome, supporting refugees and asylum seekers, and has been involved with Sulgrave Youth Club and the Askew Road Association. The report highlighted her deep and consistent commitment to tackling inequality and her passion for children's access to play.

• Sue Fennimore was recognised for her outstanding commitment and principle as a Labour Councillor for Addison ward from 2014 to 2022. During her tenure, she served as Deputy Leader of the Council, with a portfolio covering social inclusion, crime, and homelessness. A particular focus of her leadership was tackling violence against women and girls. She was instrumental in the creation of the Law Enforcement Team and the Gangs, Violence and Exploitation Unit. Her prior career at the BBC provided her with professional skills that she applied to her council service. Her voluntary work has included serving as a governor of local schools, volunteering for the Youth Offending Service, and supporting the Hammersmith Winter Night Shelter. She also served on the board of the Lyric Theatre and is currently a trustee of the Barons Court Project. The report stated that her service made a lasting difference to the lives of residents across Hammersmith and Fulham.

• Alex Karmel was nominated for his tireless advocacy for residents and his contributions to the council's decision-making processes. He was first elected to the council in Eel Brook ward in 1992. His contributions to planning matters were particularly noted, where his meticulous knowledge of how the Borough has developed over the years was seen as a valuable asset. He also served as Mayor of the Borough between 2009 and 2010. His civic engagement extended beyond council duties, including work as a school governor and a supporter of the wider civic and community life of Fulham. The nomination highlighted his dedication, integrity and a steadfast commitment to public service.

The conferment of these titles is enabled by Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, which allows councils to grant these honours to individuals who have rendered eminent services to the borough. The report indicated that the cost of small receptions for the recipients would be met from the existing Mayor's budget, with no additional financial implications.

Freedom of the Borough

The council was also scheduled to consider conferring the Freedom of the Borough on Ms Adrienne Clarke. This is described as the highest civic distinction, awarded in recognition of outstanding service or particular civic association, based on achievement and exceptional service.

Ms Clarke has been a resident of Hammersmith and Fulham since 2006, settling in Brook Green. She is a Board Member of the Friends of Brook Green, contributing to the stewardship of this open space and editing the community newsletter. She has also served as Chair of her local residents' group, a member of the Ward Action Group, and is currently on the Brook Green Ward Panel and the H&F Parks Forum. Furthermore, she was an active member of the H&F Cycling and Walking Residents Commission, which worked with the council to improve cycling and walking facilities. The report noted her distinguished and sustained contribution to the life of the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, and her tireless dedication to the community of Brook Green. Similar to the honorary alderman nominations, the financial implications were expected to be minimal, covered by the Mayor's budget.