Which local hero would you like to see commemorated? Vote now!

Voting has opened on nominations for the winners of this year’s Islington’s People’s Plaques awards.

 

Islington’s People’s Plaques showcase and celebrate our culturally rich and colourful heritage by commemorating the significant people, places, and events in the borough.

 

Residents can vote online at www.islingtonlife.london or pick up a voting card from any Islington Library or Islington Museum.

 

Voting closes at midnight on Wednesday 30th November 2016.

 

Islington Council’s executive member for community development, Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz, said: “Like us, local residents take enormous pride in Islington and the people and places that have fashioned the character of the borough we know and love today.

 

“This is a fantastic opportunity to vote for your local heroes – places, people, and events, past and present – and see that their contribution to our shared heritage is properly celebrated.”  

 

This year’s nominees are:

 

A pioneering woman who worked in professions that were, at the time, dominated by men.

 

Richard Cloudesley left money in his will to support Islington residents and maintain the borough’s churches. 2017 is the 500th anniversary of his charity.

 

Laurie Cunningham was the first black player to represent England at any level when he played against Scotland in 1977 in the under-21 side.

 

The Finsbury Park Empire was one of the most famous music halls and variety theatres in London, attracting major stars to perform at the theatre.

 

The acclaimed film director was an advocate for gay rights and HIV/AIDS awareness.

 

Thomas Lord was employed as attendant and bowler at the ‘White Conduit Cricket Club’ who were based at White Conduit House Pleasure Gardens, located in Barnsbury.

 

Richard Price met with and influenced some of the most radical thinkers and social reformers of the time. He lived in 54 Newington Green in, what is now, the oldest brick terrace in London.

 

Built to rival Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, the Red Bull Playhouse was erected in 1605, and was at the forefront of theatrical entertainment in 17th Century London.

 

Harley Sherlock lived and worked in Islington and campaigned throughout his life to improve city and rural life through architecture.

 

37-year-old PC Alfred Smith, an officer of the Metropolitan Police, died while saving the lives of around 150 women and children in Central Street Finsbury, during a heavy-bomber Gotha raid on 13 June 1917.

           

For more information about the Islington People’s Plaques visit www.islingtonlife.london.