The former boss of Richmond Council has given an address to businesses in the borough about her new role.

Gillian Norton was CEO of the council for 17 years until September last year and is now in the honorary position of Representative Deputy Lieutenant for the borough having been appointed by Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London Kenneth Olisa.

Speaking after attending a Richmond Chamber of Commerce lunch event at Cotes, Mrs Norton said: “I was delighted to attend the Chamber event and explain about the Lieutenancy, my role as Representative Deputy Lieutenant for Richmond and the focus on linking communities and making connections, something the Chamber also does so well for business.”

The High Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda, Karen-Mae Hill, was also a guest at the event and spoke about her interest in engaging with Richmond businesses, particularly post-Brexit.

Anne Newton, Richmond Chamber of Commerce CEO, said: “We were highly honoured to welcome Gillian Norton and High Commissioner Hill to our Richmond Business Lunch.

“Businesses really appreciated hearing how to engage with the Deputy Lieutenant and High Commissioner, so that we can make a difference to our various businesses, non-profits and communities.

“We know CSR (corporate social responsibility) is a key requirement for our businesses - it squares that circle.”