Just when you thought the tennis madness was over, Alan Mills serves two London landmarks, one by Wren, the other by Foster
My favourite building would have to be St Paul’s Cathedral. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1673 and built from 1675 to 1710, it is the largest cathedral in England. As well as being one of the most important landmarks in London, the architecture is magnificent and there is always a sense of awe when climbing the steps and going through the huge doors of that incredible building.
Another reason I am so fond of it is that my daughter almost got married there, and then her children, Holly and Charlie did get christened there. This was one of the benefits of my receiving an OBE. We were allowed to use the crypt, and it was a truly lovely event – it would have been special wherever it had been held, but even more special there. I always had it in mind to walk up to the dome, which is 366 feet above pavement level, but I’ve probably left it too late!
My least favourite has to be the modern building that is the new City Hall, office of Ken Livingstone. It has been described as self-important, and rightly so. In my opinion, it has little character and is not in keeping with the London I love.
Alan Mills has been referee at Wimbledon for 21 years and retires from the tournament this year. His book, Lifting the Covers, is published by Headline.
