Local Councillor Receives Lifetime Achievement Award for Services to Community

Cllr Maria Linforth-Hall has received a Political and Community Lifetime Achievement Award from the Building Blocks Initiative (BBI), as part of the annual Pride of Southwark awards.  

The award recognises Cllr Linforth-Hall's exceptional contribution to her local community, especially since becoming a Liberal Democrat councillor for St George’s ward – and its predecessor Cathedrals ward - in 2014. Originally from Ecuador, the award also celebrates her support for the Latin American community in Southwark and across London.  

Cllr Linforth-Hall currently leads two charities – Su Mana Amiga which supports survivors of domestic abuse and violence, and Kicking Cancer, a walking football charity founded by her late husband Tony Linforth-Hall, who passed away from cancer in 2023.  

Cllr Maria Linforth-Hall said: 

“It is an honour to receive this award from the BBI in my final year as a councillor in Southwark. Serving the people of St George’s and Cathedrals wards has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. I’m deeply grateful to everyone in the community who has supported me over the years, from residents and volunteers to my colleagues in the Liberal Democrat group. 

My work has always been driven by a passion for helping people, whether that’s supporting victims of domestic abuse, empowering women, or bringing people together through sport and friendship. 

I share this award with all those who give their time to make Southwark a kinder, more inclusive place.” 

Cllr Victor Chamberlain, Leader of the Southwark Liberal Democrat Group, said: 

“Maria has been a tireless champion for her community for more than a decade. Her warmth, compassion and dedication have touched countless lives. This award is a fitting tribute to everything she’s achieved, and to the extraordinary difference she continues to make.”