Mayor Perry – Listening to Croydon

Congratulations to The Museum of Croydon, which has regained its accredited status from Arts Council England, thanks in part to the contribution of our year as the London Borough of Culture. This accreditation has allowed the museum to re-open its permanent exhibition gallery, featuring the 'Rewind' exhibition showcasing Croydon's rich music history. The recognition of the high standards we are following in preserving and caring for Croydon's collection is great news for residents of all ages, creating opportunities for them to learn about and contribute to it. This is also positive news for the museum, as the accreditation means it can make a strong case to funders.

New plan to prevent violence against women and girls

Croydon achieved an important milestone in my pledge to make our borough safer, with the approval of a new plan to tackle violence against women and girls. Early intervention is vital and we will work with the Police, and the many organisations doing excellent work in our communities, to make sure all women and girls can access help, when and where they need it. Read the plan.

Croydon's sporting stars of the future

I had a fantastic time at the GLL Sport Foundation Awards, meeting our incredible young athletes. Our borough's sporting future is safe in their hands. I particularly enjoyed meeting students from the Goshukan Karate Academy who train at Monks Hill Sports Centre and watching their impressive demonstration. I'm proud that of 2,000 grant awards nationwide, 90 recipients are from Croydon. Huge congratulations to all the athletes and their support teams on their hard-earned achievements. In other good sports news, I was delighted to cut the ribbon at the opening of the refurbished tennis courts in Trumble Gardens, Thornton Heath. This was the launch of a £600,000 investment into 28 courts across 14 parks in Croydon - the result of a partnership between the Lawn Tennis Association, GLL and the Council, supported with Government funding. Residents can enjoy free tennis sessions three times a week and during June 1,800 court hours were booked, so great to see this project helping residents live healthier, active lives.

And finally, thanks to everyone involved in Croydon Pridefest on Saturday - as always, a great day out. I was honoured to be part of the parade and to join so many people from Croydon and beyond in this celebration.

Have a great weekend

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon