Alderman Tony Jones

A former Mayor of Reading who has spent 25 years building international friendships and promoting the town overseas has been nominated for Putting Reading on the Map, sponsored by the Purple Turtle and Jacobs the Jewellers.

Alderman Tony Jones (pictured second from left) was nominated by the President of Reading City Council in Reading, Pennsylvania, for his long-standing work strengthening the relationship between the two Readings.

Tony first visited Pennsylvania after the September 11 attacks, planting a tree outside Reading City Hall as a symbol of support from Reading, Berkshire. Since then, he has made numerous visits, helping celebrate major milestones including Reading, Pennsylvania’s 275th anniversary, America 250, and the forthcoming Berks County 275th celebrations.

The nomination highlights his efforts to share Reading’s history and culture with American partners. In November 2024, he presented a rare 1726 edition of “A Collection of the Works of William Penn” to the Reading Public Library in Pennsylvania.

Tony and his wife, Liz, have also hosted delegations from Pennsylvania in Reading, introducing them to local landmarks and community leaders while encouraging collaboration in culture, business, education and sport.

“Tony has become one of my dear friends,” the nominator wrote, “he has supported me through both good and difficult times, including my serious health battles, and his kindness has meant more than words can express.”

Backed by civic leaders, historians, educators and business figures from Pennsylvania and Germany, the nomination recognises Tony’s outstanding contribution to promoting Reading internationally and strengthening lasting friendships across continents.