Mayor backs campaigner for Damehood

A regeneration boss is urging national recognition for a long-standing justice campaigner whose efforts helped reform UK criminal law.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen is leading calls for Ann Ming MBE to be awarded a Damehood in recognition of her role in overturning the double jeopardy law. 

He has confirmed he will take forward a formal nomination and has written to the Prime Minister, Justice Secretary and local MPs seeking their support.

Ann Ming’s 17-year campaign followed the 1989 murder of her daughter, Julie Hogg, in Billingham. 

After two trials failed to reach a verdict, the accused was able to walk free under the centuries-old double jeopardy rule, which prevented retrial following acquittal.

Her sustained efforts contributed to landmark reforms in the Criminal Justice Act 2003, allowing retrials in serious cases where new and compelling evidence emerges. 

The change enabled a retrial in Julie’s case, leading to a conviction and life sentence in 2006.

The legal reform has since been used in hundreds of serious cases nationwide, including the Stephen Lawrence case. 

Ann was awarded an MBE in 2007 for services to the criminal justice system, and her campaign was later documented in her memoir For the Love of Julie, and last year was dramatised in the ITV series I Fought the Law, starring Sheridan Smith, bringing renewed national attention to Ann’s immense courage and stoicism.

Mayor Houchen said: “Ann Ming’s courage and determination delivered justice not just for her daughter, but also for countless families right across the country.

“This is a woman who took on the system and won, and whose tireless work will continue to serve justice for generations to come. 

“That fight began here on Teesside, but its impact continues to be felt by victims in every corner of the country.

“I know I speak for people not only here in our region, but right across Britain, when I say that a Damehood would be a fitting recognition for a woman who led one of the most important justice campaigns in modern British history.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →