Update

We are so pleased to let you know that Maxine’s Memorial bench has been installed in the Common along the Streatham Common South footpath . This was possible through your very kind donations. More money was raised than expected which is wonderful and the extra funds have been donated to FoSC for the upkeep of the Rookery.  

We are truly grateful for your support with bringing this dream to fruition. I hope many of you will be able to visit, sit and rest at the bench with fond memories of our beloved Maxine.  

With love and thanks

William and Tayo xx

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We’re raising £1,400 to help fund a new memorial bench on Streatham Common for Maxine James.

As many of you know Maxine tragically passed away in August 2021 after a short illness. Maxine was very active in the local community, a local school governor and a great promoter of diversity, inclusion and opportunities for all.

 
A daughter of the Windrush generation, she was a trailblazer in her professional career as a management consultant, spearheading reviews on structural inequalities whilst leading various organisations at chair and director level.

 
Maxine was an enthusiastic member of the Constituency Labour Party and a local activist holding a number of positions within the party. She had just been elected to the London Labour Regional Executive Committee.

Maxine lived beside Streatham Common for over 40 years where she brought up her family. Her vivacious and caring spirit touched and impacted many in the neighbourhood.

Maxine enjoyed walking, and admiring the lovely trees on the Common. She loved the Rookery – one of Maxine’s special places where she organised numerous children’s picnics under the old Cedar tree. She was a regular power walker along Streatham Common South on long summer evenings and sunny weekend mornings. Maxine supported the Streatham Common fun dog fair, kite day and fundraising activities.

A beautiful, caring and helpful soul, it is only fitting that a bench is installed for other walkers and users of the Common to pause for a rest and enjoy the space.

Any amount you can donate will be gratefully received and anything raised over and above the cost of the bench will be donated to the Friends of Streatham Common.

Thank you.