On Tuesday Merton’s councillors and MPs were invited to attend a ceremony in respect of the Queen at AFC Wimbledon before their match with Northampton Town.

The large crowd fell completely silent as the Mayor of Merton laid a floral tribute in the centre circle to Her Majesty The Queen. Councillor Henry, Mayor of Merton was followed by Merton’s two Members of Parliament and they in turn were followed by the Leader of the Council, Cllr Ross Garrod. Councillor Garrod has also written to the Royal Family expressing his condolences on behalf of the borough. Their tribute recordings were played prior to kick off. Our Assembly Member for Merton, Leonie Cooper, also took part in the ceremony.

The hosts were represented by Ivor Heller from AFC. Everyone then joined in unison for a rendition of God Save The King. Councillors from all parties were also in attendance at the Cherry Red Records Stadium. Tickets for council staff were prioritised for those that have helped during the Galpins Road gas explosion.

The ceremony confirmed what we have all known all along: AFC Wimbledon is steeped in the life of all the community in Merton. We at Wimbledon Labour Party would like to thank AFC Wimbledon for the invitation to participate.

For those who are interested in signing condolence books, please visit the Council’s website for further information.