Yesterday, Saturday 12 April, Coney Hall residents attended the unveiling of the long-awaited blue plaque celebrating the pioneering campaigning in the 1930s of local resident Elsy Borders.
Elsy lobbied tirelessly against mortgage injustice and poor construction quality by cartels of builders and financiers, fighting on for five years and taking the case all the way to High Court and the House Of Lords, despite the personal toll it took on her. She kickstarted a nationwide strike that led to the protections and legal precedents that we take for granted today. You can read all about this incredible woman here:
Glorious weather provided the perfect backdrop to introductions by Coney Hall resident Stella Etheridge and local councillor Alexa Michael, who then handed over to the current owner of the Borders’ house on Kingsway, Jeremy Tagg, for the official unveiling of the commemorative plaque.
Stella and Alexa spoke both about the Elsy inspirational story and the effort it’s taken to get the plaque authorised in the face of red tape. But, almost two decades of perseverance have paid off, and the plaque is a fitting tribute to a remarkable woman. (Tap the images below to see them full size).
The plaque, unveiled 
Stella Etheridge, talking about Elsy and her campaign 
From left to right: Councillor Burrell, Councillor Michael, Stella Etheridge, Councillor Coldspring-White, Jeremy Tagg 
Jeremy Tagg talks about Elsy’s legacy. 
The blue plaque in its new home 
After the unveiling residents chatted and found out more about Elsy
Jeremy Tagg – the current owner of ‘Insanity’, as the Borders dubbed their house – also celebrated the legacy of Elsy and her boldness in the face of what many other people would have thought insurmountable opposition from the establishment.
Elsy’s story is inspiring and relevant even today, refusing to back down in the face of injustice and fighting for people’s rights. We can be very proud to count her as one of our own, and, as Councillor Alexa Michael said, she represents an excellent role model for young women today.
We’ve uploaded a video of the 15-minute ceremony here:
Coney Hall Village Residents' Association (CHVRA) 