One hundred years ago today John Archer and Henry Sylvester Williams were elected to Battersea Borough Council and Marylebone Borough Council respectively – the first black Britons elected to public office.

The Local Government Association hopes that the achievements of these men will help inspire a new generation of black and ethnic minority Britons to become involved with local issues and to represent their communities.

Sir Jeremy Beecham, Vice Chairman of the LGA, said:

“These two men were trailblazers in the truest sense of the word. All of us, regardless of our colour, ethnicity or religion, should recognise the importance of their achievements to the development of a tolerant, modern society that celebrates diversity.

“At a time when racism was often an unwelcome part of everyday life, these men won the support of their communities and the admiration of their peers. They were hard working, humble and committed to improving the lives of local people.

“A century on from this watershed moment, councils are committed to creating communities where people’s differences are valued and respected. However black and ethnic minority communities are still under-represented in the council chamber and positions of leadership and the political parties must do more to redress the balance.

“Black and ethnic minority teenagers are more likely to have met a councillor or local MP than their white counterparts, but somewhere along the line their interest is often lost. Councils need to devote greater time and energy to connecting with these young people, getting them involved in their communities and wanting to make a difference.”

Sir Jeremy added:

“As the only body directly elected by local people to represent them, councils have a duty to ensure that everyone in their locality lives with a sense of responsibility and belonging. A council which accurately reflects its community is best placed to respond to the needs of local people and help them fulfill their full potential.”