Woking Borough Council has bestowed Honorary Freedom of the Borough upon long-serving members of the community Howard and Rosemary at a Special Meeting of Council held last month, the first time the honours have been awarded in a decade.

The Freedom of the Borough recognises exceptional contributions, or distinctive service to the Borough by an individual or group of individuals. During the Special Meeting, Mayor of Woking, Cllr Beryl Hunwicks, presented the Freeman’s Badge, ceremonial vellum scroll and certificate marking the occasion to Howard and Rosemary. Their names will be inscribed on the Roll of Freemen of the Borough.

Cllr Beryl Hunwicks said: “Freedom of the Borough is an ancient tradition and the highest honour that any Council can bestow and this evening represents an historic moment for the Council. The Honour of Freedom of the Borough is not lightly awarded and signifies the distinguished service these members of our community have given to this Borough.

“And when considering the amount of joy that Sir Howard and Dame Rosemary have brought to members of our community and beyond through their many productions at the New Victoria Theatre, it gives me so much pleasure that we can recognise them in this way.”