Freedom of the Borough

The Freedom of the Borough is the highest award that the council can award on an individual or corporate body. It is a power that is very rarely used and is normally only awarded to local people who have made a significant contribution to the locality or have achieved something outstanding.

The award of the Honorary Freedom of the Borough does not convey with it any legal rights or responsibilities, other than a ceremonial role at civic functions. The award dates back to the Middle Ages when freemen had commercial privileges and a route into a position of power in a town or city.