Jean Nelder

Elected a Labour Councillor for the Sutton Ward in 1987, she served as a City Councillor for that ward for an uninterrupted 28 years until her retirement in 2015. Universally respected for her integrity and commitment to the city as well as her ward, she demonstrated considerable powers of leadership via her public service contribution. During her time as Councillor, she became the first woman to act as a Cattedown Harbour Commissioner, as well as chairing the City’s Planning Committee for many years. She was actively involved in developments, including the Drake Circus shopping centre. She played a significant role in rebuilding local communities, and in reinvigorating the Astor Playing Fields. She was made a Freeman of the City in 2015.