Tributes are pouring in for Baroness Shreela Flather, former Maidenhead mayor and a dedicated public servant.
Shreela Flather had a great political career, serving as a councillor and in the House of Lords. She was a councillor from 1976 to 1991 and became Mayor from 1986 to 1987.
She joined the Conservative Party, and in 1990, she became Baroness Flather. She was the first Asian woman with this honor, credited with campaigning for memorial gates. These gates honor soldiers from the Indian Subcontinent, Africa, and the Caribbean. They fought in the British military during the two World Wars.
Councillor Neil Knowles called her a true trailblazer and a dedicated public servant. He emphasized the importance of issues like race relations to her. Knowles, who served as a councillor for over ten years, offers thoughts to her family.
Dr. Jonathan Romain has fond memories, remembering Shreela Flather warmly. She was the Mayor when he arrived, and he found her inclusive and formidable. He isn’t surprised she became Baroness Flather, describing her as a credit to their town.
Councillor Roy Bailey knew her for 40 years and was greatly saddened by her passing. He recalled her facing racist threats as Mayor and watching over her family then. They became friends despite different politics, and he introduced the Flathers to a family in LA. She was independent, strong-minded, and had a keen intellect. Rest in peace, Shreela.
Baroness Flather’s family announced her death. Her maiden name was Rai. She married Gary Flather, a barrister.