Merton Council has paid tribute to London and Merton town crier Peter Moore who died just before Christmas aged 70.

In his 31 years as London town crier Peter Moore dedicated a lot of his time to his role as Merton town crier including helping with a number of Mayoral events, Mitcham Carnival and in particular with welcoming guests to the first day of the Wimbledon tennis Championships queue.

Mr Moore had been due to receive a lifetime achievement award during Friday’s New Year’s Day parade in central London, after taking part in every previous parade including last year’s (2009), which Merton proudly won.

Mayor of Merton, Councillor Nick Draper said:

‘Peter Moore was one of a kind. My first engagement in May this year was to visit him in hospital where he was recovering from a heart attack. He insisted he’d get back to work as soon as possible, and that’s just what he did. He was irrepressible. He will be remembered in Merton and throughout London for the colour and ceremony he brought to so many occasions.’

Leader of Merton Council, Councillor David Williams said:

‘I have known Peter since I was Deputy Mayor in 1981/82. It is sad to lose someone who has given so much to London and in particular to Merton over the years. He added a great personal touch as the friendly and welcoming face on the first day of the Wimbledon tennis championships each year and he will certainly be missed.”

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