Lesley was my Deputy Mayor for two terms. Lesley came from a life where she had been a solo mother when they weren’t treated with much respect, nor were they assisted greatly financially.
Lesley brought up her two children and managed financially by working various part time jobs. She became involved in the union movement and from there onto becoming an activist within the Labour Party.
Lesley was a City Councillor for two terms and Deputy Mayor for two terms, and then she retired. She was always the voice at the Council table for minorities and those who were voiceless.
Always an advocate for social justice and encouraging the Christchurch City Council to be more involved in social issues. Lesley was always a strong advocate for the Wigram area which she represented and, when she found the Peacock Fountain in a Council building she became the biggest advocate for its restoration.
I always think of Lesley when I walk past that fountain..
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