The Mayor of Tower Hamlets has dedicated a newly refurbished sports pavilion to a former council employee who dedicated 40 years of his life to the borough.
Ron Cain, known as Ronnie to his friends and colleagues, first worked in Victoria Park under the Greater London Council in 1977.
Starting out as a keeper, he worked his way up through the ranks before eventually becoming the park’s manager.
Ron sadly passed away in July. His council colleagues paid tribute to his generosity and his willingness to make time for everyone. They wanted to find a way to ensure his name lived on in the park for many years to come.
At a ceremony on Wednesday afternoon, Mayor John Biggs made that wish a reality when he officially opened Victoria Park’s newly renovated sports pavilion and announced that it will be known as the ‘Ron Cain Sports Pavilion’ as a lasting tribute.
The overhaul of the pavilion saw the installation of a new extension, modern changing facilities and new communal space. It was delivered in partnership with the London Marathon Charitable Trust.
Mayor John Biggs said:
“I was delighted to join Ron’s family and to see so many of his former colleagues turn out. It was a real testament to how well thought of he was.
“Our biggest asset at the council is the people, like Ron, who work so hard every day to make Tower Hamlets such a fantastic place to live, work and visit.
“Around 9 million people come to Victoria Park each year, making it one of the most popular parks in London and one of the most treasured venues in Tower Hamlets.
“Its success would not be possible if it wasn’t for the efforts of the council team who go the extra mile to make every visit such a great experience.
“Ron was a member and a leader of that team for many years and it is fitting that his contribution is being recognised in this way.”
Cllr Abdul Mukit MBE, Cabinet Member for Culture and Youth, said:
“We’re proud that more people than ever feel that the council is making the borough a better place to live.
“Working with the London Marathon Charitable Trust, we were able to deliver a refurbished pavilion with great new facilities that are already making a difference for our residents.
“The pavilion will be used by thousands of people and I am pleased that, moving forward, it will carry Ron Cain’s name.”
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