Christopher Walford facts for kids

Sir Christopher Rupert Walford (born October 15, 1935 – died October 21, 2015) was an English lawyer, known as a solicitor. He held a very important position as the 667th Lord Mayor of London.

About Christopher Walford

Christopher Walford was born in London. His father was also a lawyer, called a barrister, who worked for the government. In 1940, during World War II, his father's office moved to Blackpool for safety. So, Christopher's family moved there too. They returned to London in 1949.

Starting in Local Government

Christopher Walford began his public service in 1962. He became a councillor for the area called the Royal Borough of Kensington. A councillor is someone elected to represent people in a local government. In 1964, Kensington joined with Chelsea to form one larger borough. He continued to serve as a councillor there.

He became the Deputy Mayor in 1974. Then, in 1979, he was elected Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. The Mayor is the leader of the local council.

Serving the City of London

In 1982, Christopher Walford started working with the City of London. This is the historic heart of London, with its own special government. He was elected as an Alderman for the area called Farringdon Within. An Alderman is a senior member of the City of London's government.

He was also involved with special groups called Livery Companies. These are old trade associations in the City of London. He became the Master of the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards in 1987. A Master is the head of a Livery Company. In 1993, he was also the Master of the City of London Solicitors’ Company.

Becoming Lord Mayor

In 1990, he was elected as the Aldermanic Sheriff. The Sheriffs are important officials in the City of London. Then, in 1994, Christopher Walford was elected as the Lord Mayor of London. This is a very old and important role, leading the City of London's government for a year.

He received a special honor in 1995. He was knighted on June 17, 1995, which means he was given the title "Sir."

Important Roles and Positions

Christopher Walford held many significant roles throughout his life:

• City of London Roles
  • He became a Freeman of the City of London in 1964. This is a special honor given to people connected to the City.
  • He was elected Alderman for Farringdon Within in 1982.
  • He served as Sheriff of the City of London from 1990 to 1991.
  • He was the Master of the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards from 1987 to 1988.
  • He was the Master of the City of London Solicitors Company from 1993 to 1994.
• Royal Representative
  • He was one of His Majesty's Lieutenants for the City of London. A Lieutenant represents the King or Queen in a local area.
• Charity Work
  • He was a Trustee of Morden College, a charity that helps older people. A trustee helps manage a charity.
  • He was a Trustee of the St Paul's Cathedral Choir School Foundation.
  • He was a Trustee of the Guildhall School, Music and Drama Foundation.
  • He was a Governor of Bridewell Royal Hospital. A governor helps oversee an institution like a hospital or school.

Civic offices
Preceded by Sir Paul Newall	Lord Mayor of London 1994–1995	Succeeded by Sir John Chalstrey