Margot Dunn, Islington’s first Older People’s Champion and former mayor, dies at 94
Dunn served as a councillor for Holloway from 1994 to 2006 and was mayor in 2002-03
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Margot Dunn, who served as Islington’s mayor in 2002-03 and represented Holloway ward for 12 years, has died. She was 94. Dunn was the first councillor to hold the role of Older People’s Champion and chaired committees on fostering, adoption, and human resources during her time in office.
Born in Whitechapel in 1930, Dunn moved to Islington in 1965. She became a councillor in 1994, serving alongside James Kempton and Douglas Taylor. Her public service extended beyond her council term, including roles as a governor at several Islington schools and at Whittington Hospital NHS Trust.
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A lasting impact on Holloway
Residents and colleagues remember Dunn as a familiar figure in Holloway. Laura Willoughby MBE, who worked with her, told the Times Series that Dunn brought warmth and humour to her interactions. "She cared for her friends deeply and openly," Willoughby said. "She brought the same attention to residents, and that’s why so many knew her."
You're the person who got me somewhere to live.
Unnamed resident to Margot Dunn in 2022
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In 2022, while waiting for a Covid vaccination, Dunn was recognised by a stranger who credited her with securing their housing. The moment was reported by This Is Local London. Dunn was also known for her distinctive style, wearing her red mayoral robes to every event and jewellery made by a close friend.
Public service and personal resilience
Dunn’s career included chairing the first Lay Visitors Panel to Islington police stations. After leaving office, she remained active in the community. Her personal life was marked by loss, including the death of her daughter Jane, for whom she advocated, and her second husband, John. In later years, she was cared for by her grandson, Isaac, and leaves behind two great-grandchildren.
Dunn was often seen riding her tricycle through Islington’s streets. Her death was confirmed by local media on 12 August 2024, though the exact date of her passing is unclear. Islington Council has not yet announced plans for a public memorial.
What happens next
Islington Council has not released details of any official tributes or memorials for Dunn. Residents who wish to share memories or condolences may contact the council directly. Her legacy in local governance and community service will be remembered in Holloway and beyond.
Questions this report answers
+What roles did Margot Dunn hold in Islington Council?
Margot Dunn served as a councillor for Holloway ward from 1994 to 2006. She was mayor in 2002-03, chaired committees on fostering and adoption, and became the council’s first Older People’s Champion. Her work extended to school governance and NHS trust roles.
+How did Margot Dunn impact the community?
Dunn was known for her warmth and humour, as described by colleagues like Laura Willoughby MBE. A resident once told her, "You're the person who got me somewhere to live," highlighting her influence on housing and local support. She remained active in Islington long after leaving office.
+What happens now that Margot Dunn has died?
Islington Council has not announced plans for a public memorial. Residents may contact the council to share memories or condolences. Dunn’s legacy in local governance and community service will continue to be recognised in Holloway and across Islington.
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