Civic dignitaries, former mayors and a St John Ambulance volunteer were welcomed to an event in Huntingdon to recognise their years of dedication to the community.

Two people were awarded 'Freedom of the Town at the event at the Coneygear Community Centre on September 22 and others had 'rooms' named in their honour.

The awarding of the Honorary Freedom of the Town is one of the highest awards that a town council can bestow on its citizens.

At a meeting of Huntingdon Town Council in November last year, it was agreed that former Mayor Ann Beevor and Pat Harrington, from St John Ambulance, would receive the honour.

On Friday, Ann and Pat were joined by family and friends as they received their scrolls from the mayor of Huntingdon, Phil Pearce, and deputy lieutenant Daryl Brown MBE in recognition of their dedication to the Huntingdon community.

The town council says: "As a former mayor and dedicated councillor of Huntingdon, Ann has consistently demonstrated her unwavering commitment to the town. Over several decades, she has dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the service of Huntingdon Town Council and the well-being of the local community.

The Hunts Post: Ann Beavor with Daryl Brown and Huntingdon mayor, Cllr Phil Pearce.Ann Beavor with Daryl Brown and Huntingdon mayor, Cllr Phil Pearce. (Image: NEWSQUEST)

 

"Alongside her late husband, George, she embodied an unassuming yet resolute spirit, continually striving to enhance the quality of life for those facing challenges. Ann's legacy is a testament to her compassion and determination, qualities that make her an exceptional role model for today's generation of town councillors."

Speaking of Pat, they said his "unwavering commitment to his local community has been nothing short of exceptional".

"Since 1981, he has been a dedicated champion for the cause, serving as a steadfast pillar of support for St John Ambulance. His contributions have extended far beyond the organisation, as he has tirelessly fundraised, taught, and supported individuals both within the local community and beyond.

"He embodies the very essence of community spirit, inspiring generations with his unwavering "can do" outlook on life.

"Pat's presence at community occasions is a source of great joy for many, a testament to his enduring commitment to uplifting those around him."

Following the Freedom ceremony, the mayor invited family and friends of three highly regarded individuals, who have made a significant contribution to Huntingdon, to cut ribbons as part of the room naming ceremony for the Coneygear Centre.

The mayor’s chaplain, the Rev Jon Randall, gave a blessing and dedicated the rooms as The Ted Bocking Hall, in honour of Edward (Ted) Bocking, town clerk of Huntingdon from 1982 – 2002; the Beryl Robertson Meeting Room, in honour of Beryl Roberston, former mayor of Huntingdon on three occasions (1985, 1988, 1991), and the Jim Lomax Library, in honour of Robert James (Jim) Lomax, former mayor of Huntingdon (1996).

The Hunts Post: A library room was named after Jim Lomax.A library room was named after Jim Lomax. (Image: NEWSQUEST)

The Hunts Post: The Ted Bocking Hall was formally opened.The Ted Bocking Hall was formally opened. (Image: NEWSQUEST)

The Hunts Post: A meeting room was named after Beryl Robertson.A meeting room was named after Beryl Robertson. (Image: NEWSQUEST)

The historic origins of freemen or burgesses can be traced back many centuries to the former municipal corporations in the twelfth and thirteenth century.

Legislation now enables principal councils and all parish councils to admit as Honorary Freemen and Freewomen ‘persons of distinction and persons who have, in the opinion of the town council, rendered eminent services to the city’.

Associated with Freedom of the Town is ‘Freedom of Entry’ and this has enabled the town council to grant such an honour on a number of regiments; Royal Anglian Regiment, Princess Wales Royal Regiment, RAF Wyton and RAF Alconbury USVF who have rendered conspicuous service to, and are closely associated with, the Town. This particular ‘Freedom’ enables the service units to march through the streets with ‘bayonets fixed, drums beating and Colours flying’.

In 2016, the town council conferred its first Honorary Freeman status to former town clerk Ted Bocking and in 2022 granted a further two Honorary Freeman statuses to Gordon Peacock and the late Derek Bristow.