Croydon has a new Honorary Recorder, with His Honour Judge Edward Connell unanimously appointed to the ceremonial role at a Council meeting on Wednesday, 15 April 2026. The appointment signifies a strengthening of ties between the judiciary and the local authority.
His Honour Judge Connell, who became Resident Judge at Croydon Crown Court at the start of 2026, brings over two decades of experience at the criminal bar, followed by roles as a recorder and circuit judge. The position of Honorary Recorder traditionally aligns with the Resident Judge at Croydon Crown Court and is an unpaid, ceremonial role.
The Honorary Recorder role is wholly civic and ceremonial in nature,
serving to maintain that link between the judiciary and the borough, and it places the court at the heart of our civic life.
It also plays an important civic function, strengthening ties, supporting engagement, and helping to foster a wider understanding of the legal system within our borough.
This differs from the Resident Judge role, which has the responsibility for the operation and leadership of the court. The Honorary Recorder title is conferred upon the Resident Judge by the council in whose area the Crown Court sits.
His Honour Judge Edward Connell's appointment as Resident Judge is for a four-year term, with the possibility of renewing up to two terms. The appointment as Honorary Recorder follows this established convention. The full details of the appointment can be found in the Appointment of Honorary Recorder document.
