The Ceremonial Council of Barking and Dagenham convened to bestow honours upon two significant entities. The council voted to award the Honorary Freedom of the Borough to the Dagenham Girl Pipers, and to name Jean Alexander as an Honorary Alderwoman of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.

Honorary Freedom of the Borough for the Dagenham Girl Pipers

The council voted to confer the title of Honorary Freedom of the Borough to the Dagenham Girl Pipers. Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership & Engagement, proposed the nomination, which was seconded. Councillor Ashraf spoke of the Pipers' incredible contribution to the borough, stating that they:

...tick that box and more. Barking and Dagenham has a proud history of incredible achievement and contribution made by women who have shaped not just the borough but the country and have put our borough on the map.

She noted their performances at important civic occasions, including remembrance services and events marking the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Development, supported the nomination, highlighting the band's international tours, including visits to Barking and Dagenham's twin town of Witten, Germany. He recounted a tour to the Black Forest in August 1939, at the outbreak of World War II, where the Dagenham Girl Pipers were the last British uniformed group in Germany for some years.

Councillor Phil Waker expressed his hope that the award could help the band reform, and thanked them for leading the Remembrance Day march in Dagenham Village. Councillor Elizabeth Kangethe, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment & School Improvement, shared her positive experiences interacting with the Dagenham Girl Pipers during her mayoral year and travels to Germany with the Witten team. Councillor Andy Achilleos, Chair, Overview & Scrutiny Committee, described the Dagenham Girl Pipers as part of the fabric and identity of Dagenham, recalling their performances at Remembrance Day parades.

Honorary Alderwoman of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham: Jean Alexander

The council voted to confer the title of Honorary Alderwoman of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham to Jean Alexander. The nomination was proposed and seconded, with Councillor Geddes speaking in support. He shared anecdotes from Jean Alexander's career as a councillor, highlighting her work in town centre wards, her close relationship with the Almedina Mosque, and her involvement in bringing the classical concert to the park. He also noted her roles as lead member for education and in enforcement, and her ability to work well with council officers and the police. Councillor Geddes also paid tribute to Jean Alexander and her partner Tony, acknowledging their mutual support and contributions to the borough.