England World Cup heroes Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers to receive Dudley's highest civic honour
A meeting of Dudley Council on July 13 voted to award the pair the Freedom of the Borough, the highest civic honour the authority can bestow.
Dudley borough’s World Cup heroes Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers are to be offered a top honour to mark their achievements.
A meeting of Dudley Council on July 13 voted to award the pair the Freedom of the Borough, the highest civic honour the authority can bestow.
Councillors voted unanimously to grant the honour to the England football stars, Bellingham was born in Stourbridge, while Rogers hails from Halesowen.
Dudley Council leader, Cllr Patrick Harley, said: “The Freedom of the Borough is the highest honour we can bestow, and it is reserved for those whose service, achievements and dedication have made an exceptional contribution to our borough and its people.
“This year’s recipients represent the very best of Dudley. From our armed forces veterans, who have shown extraordinary courage and sacrifice in service to our country, to community champions, sporting role models and dedicated public servants, each has made a lasting impact and brought great pride to our borough.
“It is only right that we recognise their achievements and celebrate the difference they have made to the lives of others.”
Armed forces veterans – specifically armed forces personnel who have served on active duty and in conflicts, Cllr Shaukat Ali, former Dudley College CEO Lowell Williams, Priory Park Boxing Club, will also be awarded freedom of the borough.
The council will confer the title of Honorary Alderman upon former Cllr Michael Evans, in recognition of his long and distinguished service to local government.
Cllr Qasim Mughal, deputy leader of the Dudley Labour group, said: “We are absolutely delighted that our call to honour Jude Bellingham for the Freedom of the Borough received unanimous cross-party support.
“At the same time, we would also like to add our congratulations to Morgan Rogers, Lowell Williams, armed forces veterans, Priory Boxing Club and our group leader, Cllr Shaukat Ali.”
Sir Lenny Henry is among famous borough figures who have previously been awarded the freedom of Dudley.
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