In a special meeting, Islington Council awarded David John Dade the Freedom of the Borough in recognition of his extensive voluntary work with the Islington Poppy Appeal. Councillors praised Dade's dedication to veterans and the community, highlighting his fundraising efforts and support for those in need. The motion was moved by Councillor Una O'Halloran, Leader of the Council, seconded by Councillor Santiago Bell-Bradford (Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Inclusive Economy, Culture & Jobs), and passed unanimously.

Freedom of the Borough Award

The main event of the meeting was the presentation of the Freedom of the Borough to David John Dade, recognising his decade-long commitment to voluntary service, particularly through the Islington Poppy Appeal. Councillor Una O'Halloran moved the motion, emphasising Dade's selfless service and dedication to veterans and their families. Councillor Santiago Bell-Bradford seconded the motion, recalling his first meeting with Dade at a Remembrance Day event and highlighting Dade's role in ensuring remembrance and support for veterans.

Several other councillors spoke in support of the motion, including:

• Councillor Theron, who recounted Dade's service in the Merchant Navy and the Army Catering Corps, as well as his 54 years of membership in the Royal British Legion, noting that Dade had raised nearly half a million pounds for the Poppy Appeal since 2013.
• Councillor Jeeves, who spoke of his own family's military history and praised Dade's compassion and commitment to ensuring veterans feel seen, valued, and cared for.
• Councillor Troy Gallagher (Small Business, Co-ops & Social Enterprise Champion), who described Dade as the Poppy Man and lauded his unwavering commitment to causes greater than himself, his advocacy for LGBTQ rights, and his support for homeless youth and veterans.
• Councillor Russell, who expressed her delight at Dade receiving the award.

What really stands out about me, David, about me, about David's work, that it isn't about fundraising, it's about selfless service and sacrifice towards others. The values you show in your work are the values that we should all aspire to. You tirelessly dedicate and represent the very, very best of Islington.

Councillor Una O'Halloran, Leader of the Council

Following the unanimous vote in favour of the motion, Dade signed the Roll of Honorary Freepersons and was presented with a framed Freedom Scroll by Councillor Jason Jackson (Mayor). Dade addressed the council, expressing his thanks and setting a target of raising £100,000 for the Poppy Appeal in the coming year.

Apologies

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Chowdhury, Croft, Gill, Ibrahim, Kay, Khondoker, Khurana, Klute, Nanda, Nargund, O'Sullivan, Ozdemir, Shaikh, Spall, Wayne and Weekes.