Simon Pitkeathley, the Mayor's Champion for Small Business, writes latest of of our Love Letters to London.

"It’s been 38 years since we properly met.  It’s been a ride and an experience I wouldn’t change, even I could.  I know neither of us would pretend it’s been bump free.  And I know I haven’t always treated you as well as I could have.  But as my older eyes look over the changes and challenges we've recently faced, I can see how we’ve both grown in each other’s company.  I wouldn’t be the person I am today without being part of your landscape and culture.  And wherever the journey next takes us, I know we’ll be together, and I know I will certainly be the better for it.  Keep changing and stay the same, just as you always have, and take no notice of the haters.  They just need the chance to know you like I know you."

Simon Pitkeathley is Chief Executive of the multi-award winning Camden Town Unlimited and Euston Town Business Improvement Districts, and Camden Collective, which supports start-up businesses and young entrepreneurs. He is Chair of Camden Giving and co-Chair of Cross River Partnership and recently established the London Innovation District. Simon is Chair of the London European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) Committee and Co-Chairs the Mayor’s Open Workspace Providers Board.

Write your own Love Letter to London in our free to enter competition that has £4,000 in prize money. Full details here.