Warwick District's unsung heroes were honoured in a civic reception held at Leamington's Royal Pump Rooms last week (3 October).

The reception was an acknowledgment of the people of distinction who have rendered eminent services to the community of Warwick District.

Three former councillors were awarded Alderman and Alderwoman status, and twelve individuals were awarded Freeman and Freewoman of the District.

"Freedom of the District" is an honorary title showing a mark of distinction upon the person whom the Council wishes to honour.

Cllr Naveen Tangri, Chairman of Warwick District Council said: "It is an honour and a privilege to have awarded these exceptional individuals with the recognition they so thoroughly deserve.

"These are individuals that have worked tirelessly for the betterment of their community over the decades, and it is only fitting that as part of this Council's 50th anniversary celebrations that we acknowledge those who have done so much to ensure our communities thrive."

The Freedom itself carries no privilege but reflects the "eminence of the person on whom it is conferred on as recognition of significant and valuable services rendered to the district by that person".

Margaret Kite receives her Freewoman of the District award with representatives from the many charities she has supported (image via The Myton Hospices)

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The first individuals to receive this award were:

• Jon Holmes for 50 years' service to WDC, Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, improving green spaces and Biodiversity
• Jennifer Heath – Whitnash Youth Club, Dementia Café, Chatternatters
• Dawid Kozlowski – Humanitarian Aid and local cultural events • Gian Clare – United Nations Association
• Richard Philips – Festival Director of Leamington Music (retired)
• Anthony Britton – the Pam Britton Trust for Dementia, The Little Pocket book of Support
• Margaret Rushton – Leamington History Group
• Carole Sleight – Arts and Community engagement
• Margaret Kite – 30 years of volunteer work for local charities
• Andrew Emm – volunteer groups at Dale Street Methodist Church
• Bridget Halpin – Girlguiding volunteer
• Julie Brown – Girlguiding volunteer

The status of Alderman/Alderwoman is also an Honorary title from the Council for any former councillor who, in the opinion of the Council, has rendered "eminent services to the Authority".

This award recognises the specific achievements of former councillors and the contribution they made to the growth and development of the district, or the impact on our community.

The past councillors who received the Alderman/Alderwoman of the District were:

• Alderman Margaret Begg - 23 years as District Cllr from March 1984 - 2007
• Alderman Michael Coker - 39 years as District Cllr from May 1976 - May 1995 and May 1999 - 2019, and 49-years total as Cllr including time as a Town Councillor
• Alderwoman Jane Knight - 16 years as District Cllr from May 2003 - May 2019