The Civic Mayor of Croydon

The Council elected Councillor Richard Chatterjee to serve as Civic Mayor of Croydon for 2025-2026. The Deputy Civic Mayor is Councillor Mohammed Islam.

Civic Mayor, Councillor Richard Chatterjee

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"It is a great honour for me to serve as Civic Mayor – a role of public service to our very diverse borough.

Both my parents came to London to study in the 1940s, I was the youngest of 3 children. I have lived in Croydon since the age of 3 and attended All Saints’ Infants and Primary Schools in Upper Norwood and was in the penultimate intake of Selhurst Grammar School before studying pharmacy. I worked as an NHS hospital pharmacist for 16 years then for the civil service for 23 years. I have been a public sector trade union activist since 1990. 

I have continued to be an active member of Woodside Baptist Church since the age of 16 and have served more than one term as Church Secretary and was a founding trustee of Woodside Bereavement Service, serving as trustee for 20 years. 

I have been a councillor since 2002 and have had various council roles including the RE committee SACRE, the Fairtrade committee, Autism Partnership Board and served as Deputy Civic Mayor in 2024-2025. 

My wife Angela will be the Civic Mayoress and will support me during this term in office. I am a firm believer in family and community values.

I understand that each Civic Mayor and Deputy Civic Mayor has gained valuable insights into the people and community of Croydon during their term of service. With the support of Executive Mayor Jason Perry and Deputy Civic Mayor Councillor Mohammed Islam, I look forward to embracing similar opportunities this year.

I also look ahead to the challenges that lie before me and remain committed to raising awareness and support for my chosen charities."
 

Deputy Civic Mayor, Councillor Mohammed Islam

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I am proud to represent our borough, celebrate our diverse communities, and promote Croydon as a place of opportunity and progress.

I am honoured to serve as Deputy Civic Mayor, representing Croydon's vibrant and diverse community with dedication and integrity.

Originally from Ipswich, I have proudly called Croydon home since 1980. I was educated locally at Howard Primary School, Ashburton High School, and Croydon College, an experience that shaped my lifelong commitment to community service.
For over 22 years, I’ve lived in Selhurst with my wife, Farhana Islam, whose unwavering support has been vital to my work. Together, we've raised four children and are proud grandparents of two.

Professionally, I am a passionate Approved Driving Instructor, committed to promoting safe and confident driving for life. I’m also a proud supporter and season ticket holder of Crystal Palace FC, reflecting my deep connection to this community.

In 2001, I ran the Flora London Marathon to raise funds for charity and continue to support causes through fundraising and volunteering. I’m a founding member of the British Bangladeshi Society of Croydon (BBSC), which offers educational, cultural, and wellbeing support to the community. I'm also a regular NHS blood donor, proud to contribute to lifesaving efforts.

As a Councillor for Selhurst Ward, I’ve worked tirelessly to support residents and improve local services. 

As Deputy Civic Mayor, my priority is to uphold the values of inclusivity, respect, and unity across Croydon. I will continue to work closely with residents, community groups, and local organisations to ensure that every voice is heard, and that Croydon remains a great place to live, work, and thrive.