Merrick Cockell knighted for services to local government

Former London Councils Chairman Councillor Merrick Cockell has been awarded a knighthood in the Queen's Birthday Honours for services to local government.

Sir Merrick was honoured in the awards announced on Saturday 12 June 2010.

Sir Merrick was Chairman of London Councils from 2006 until 2010. During this time he improved working relations across London local government as well as steering campaigns on primary school places and local government finance.

Sir Merrick is also Leader of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. He had led the council for 10 years during which the Royal Borough has been recognised as one of Britain's best performing local authorities.

Chair of London Councils, Mayor Jules Pipe said, "This honour is recognition of the tireless work of Sir Merrick and his commitment to local government.

"As Chairman of London Councils, Sir Merrick fought for better services across London - serving not only the people of Kensington and Chelsea, but all Londoners. This is a fitting honour for someone dedicated to local government and I send my congratulations on behalf of London Councils."