HONORARY Freedom of the Borough has been awarded not only to some of Barnsley’s best-known sons and daughters, but to the unsung heroes on the frontline of its Covid response.
Staff from Barnsley Hospital’s intensive care unit have been announced alongside stars of sport, culture and art as receiving the council’s highest honour.
The local authority has used its power seven times since 2000, and this year has also recognised World Cup-winning cricketer Katherine Brunt, artist and sculptor Graham Ibbeson, prolific actor Katherine Kelly, and Barnsley Youth Choir artistic director Mat Wright.
Council leader Sir Steve Houghton said: “I am delighted and honoured to be awarding these five remarkable nominees with the Honorary Freedom of the Borough.
“There is no higher award or recognition that we as a council can bestow and it is a title not awarded lightly.”
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