The borough flag was flown at half mast on Monday 11 February as a mark of respect in memory of former Councillor Mabel Arnold, who sadly passed away peacefully in a nursing home on Sunday 10 February at the age of 102.

Mabel served as a Councillor between 1974 and 1998 serving initially the Manor Ward.  She represented the Parsloes Ward between 1978 and 1986 and then the former Cambell Ward between 1986 and 1998.

During her time on the council she served on a number of former committees including the General Purposes, Technical Services, Education, Finance and Cleansing Committees.

She also served as Deputy Chair of the Social Services Committee between 1982 and 1988 and the Libraries Committees between 1990 and 1993.

The late Councillor Mabel Arnold was also a recipient of the Freedom of the Borough.

Leading of Barking and Dagenham Council, Councillor Darren Rodwell paid tribute to her when he said:

“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of a borough great – a former councillor, Mayor and recipient of the Freedom of the Borough – Mabel Arnold. 

“Not only did she serve our borough selflessly over the years, I am extremely proud as a hammer to say until her death, she was the oldest season ticket holder and fan of 85 years.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.”