I am a married mum, businesswoman, former Councillor, local GP and a well-known community figure in Tower Hamlets. I have lived in our borough for over 40 years and have been educated here from nursery all the way through to medical school.

I have always had a keen interest in politics and have been actively involved from a young age. One of my earliest memories is delivering leaflets in the 70s to campaign against the fascists in East London who used to throw eggs at my Mum and me on the way to school.

I have put myself forward because I have experienced first-hand how for the past 50 years the people of Tower Hamlets have been let down by a Council controlled mainly by Labour. As a GP I struggle daily to obtain Council Services for my patients. The current Mayoral administration’s poor record on housing and crime also concerns me greatly.

My deep-rooted local connections in Tower Hamlets give me a personal commitment to improving the quality of life for residents. I have lived through the periods of our borough having appalling services, as well as the endemic political corruption and divide and rule politics that have been used to pitch our communities against one another.

This is the first reaction video from Dr Anwara Ali MBE and she'd like to thank all of her supporters, colleagues and family and friends and is humbled by receiving this great honour from her Majesty. We'd like to thank everyone who has stood by her in her career and throughout the time she has been in the NHS. Thank you to all the well wishers and we wish you all the best!!!!

PS- There is also a clip from our lovely friend Thelma Cohen and thank you again for your continued support.

Anwara