Connections with Brighton and Hove : Pauline Benjamin became the first black woman in Britain to be appointed as a magistrate in 1967, just one success in a career of many achievements. Born in Jamaica, she came to live in Britain in 1919 when she was five. After attending London University she undertook social work. She was a leading figure in the National Council for the Unmarried Mother and her Child. She also became secretary of the Brook Advisory Council. Pauline Benjamin also worked as a conciliation officer for the Race Relations Board and served on the Parole Board. She was awarded the OBE. She had a second career as an actor, appearing on the stage, TV and radio. But as a film actor she was often typecast as a black maid. After having a daughter and a son from her first two marriages, she acquired three stepsons from her third marriage to the poet Joe Benjamin. She lived for many years in Sillwood Place, Brighton, and played an active part in organisations such as the Women’s Centre. Pauline Benjamin made tremendous efforts to recover from a severe stroke in 1985, including swimming daily, but died in 1998.
455 Volvo Gemini - carried name since delivery in May 2013 on Route 5. Route 5 branding removed January 2016. Repainted into standard livery December 2019.