Council recognises community spirited residents and sports personalities

Several community-spirited residents and local sports personalities have been awarded the title of Honorary Freeman by Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The titles were presented to the recipients at a ceremony held last month at Chester Town Hall. 

Those who were awarded the title were: Lloyd Wildridge, for his charity work and community volunteering including litter picking; Keith Bartlett, for supporting personal safety and crime reduction initiatives;  Paul Butler, Boxing Champion who has been inspiring and coaching young people and supporting local charities; Harry Brightmore (pictured), Olympic Gold Medallist in the men’s rowing eight who has also coached and supported local rowing initiatives; Dorothy Jump, for voluntary roles as a parent / carer champion and representative and Amy Truesdale, Paralympic Gold Medallist in Taekwondo,  who has been inspiring young people. 

Councillor Rob Bisset, Chairman of the Council said: 

“Honorary Freemen play an important role in our local communities as well as being ambassadors in their own specialities. Although the title carries no privileges, it is purely an important honour to recognise the valuable services and contributions our residents make.

“Creating thriving communities across Cheshire West needs volunteers, sports personalities, and those who go above and beyond to help create a sense of belonging, opportunities and safer and nicer environments for everyone to live in.  Our new Honorary Freemen are the cornerstones of our communities and it was my privilege to be able to award them the title."