Two senior and two retired councillors, from the Borough Council of Wellingborough have received a civic honour in recognition of their commitment to the local community.
Shashi Dholakia, George Blackwell, Cllr Tom Partridge-Underwood and Cllr Malcolm Waters were awarded the distinction of Honorary Freeman at a special meeting of the council on Friday 29 March 2019.
Honorary Freeman is awarded to current and previous councillors of the borough council in recognition of their eminent services to the borough, local government and local organisations under section 249 of the Local Government Act.
They received a unique scroll from the Mayor, Cllr Malcolm Ward to commemorate the honour, and as Honorary Freeman will be granted the historic special permissions to walk their sheep through the town.
To be granted the title of Honorary Freeman is a mark of distinction upon the person whom the Council wishes to honour. The Freedom itself carries no privilege and is purely an honour, reflecting the eminence of the person on whom it is conferred or as recognition of significant and valuable services rendered to the city or borough by that person. It is normally an honour or award to men or women of note who have lived or worked in the Borough, and who are proud to be a part of the Borough's history by becoming freemen.
Speaking about this honour, Shashi Dholakia said, “I am so thrilled and amazed at this very great honour being given to me - the Freedom of my Town - Wellingborough where I have spent 52 years of my life. This is an award not only for me but for my family, friends and the community at large. I would like to thank the Council for this honour."
